Wasl, one of Dubai’s largest real estate development and management companies, has extended its strategic partnership with Etihad Energy Services to drive a series of innovative and impactful sustainability initiatives across Wasl’s real estate portfolio. This continued sustainability journey of Wasl encompasses further solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, building retrofits, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, and the establishment of an advanced Command Control Centre. These projects align with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy and Dubai’s vision for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
The partnership will include the installation of photovoltaic solar energy systems on the rooftops of 77 Wasl properties, achieving a total capacity of 4,000 kWp. These systems are expected to generate an annual output of 6.7 million kilowatt-hours, contributing to a reduction in energy consumption of up to 34%. Notably, some properties will rely on solar energy to cover more than 80% of their electricity needs. This step will help reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2,666 tons annually, reflecting Wasl’s strong commitment to the use of renewable energy.
This initiative follows the success of the first phase of the project, which involved the installation of more than 22,000 advanced solar panels, achieving a total capacity of over 7,000 kWp, resulting in the generation of 11 million kilowatt-hours and a reduction in the carbon footprint by 4,500 tons of carbon dioxide annually. This is equivalent to removing 2,200 cars from the road, planting 180,000 trees, or providing energy for an entire year to 900 homes in Dubai.
In the second phase of the project, 46 properties will undergo comprehensive renovations that contribute to improving energy and water consumption efficiency. These improvements are expected to achieve a reduction in electricity consumption by 14.6 million kilowatt-hours annually, and in water consumption by 1.4 million gallons, leading to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by about 5,817 tons annually. These improvements will contribute to enhancing tenant comfort and operational efficiency.
This partnership includes the establishment of the Command-and-Control Center (CCC), which is considered a model for digital transformation in energy management. This advanced center will oversee the performance of assets in more than 300 properties, where vital systems such as air conditioning and solar energy systems are remotely controlled. Using artificial intelligence technologies, the center ensures optimal asset performance, improves indoor air quality, reduces operational costs, and enables predictive maintenance to ensure long-term service efficiency.
As part of Wasl’s commitment to supporting green transportation and providing the necessary infrastructure to enhance sustainable mobility solutions, Wasl is installing a number of electric vehicle charging stations at several locations.
Commenting on this partnership, Dr. Waleed AlNuaimi, CEO of Etihad Energy Services Company, said: "We are proud to cooperate with Wasland support its journey towards sustainability. This project reflects our shared commitment to achieving Dubai’s sustainability goals by adopting innovative solutions for renewable energy and increasing consumption efficiency. We are contributing to achieving the long-term environmental goals of the UAE while sustainably improving residents’ quality of life.”
Salem AlNuaimi, Director of Asset Services and Solutions Management at Wasl, said: “Sustainability is at the core of our operations at Wasl, and this partnership represents a pivotal step towards enhancing our real estate portfolio’s environmental performance. These projects also allow us to achieve positive environmental results while providing sustainable and comfortable spaces for our customers.”
This strategic partnership between Etihad Energy Services and Wasl exemplifies how collaboration and innovation can lead to impactful, sustainable development. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, renewable energy solutions, and energy-efficient practices, both organizations are setting new benchmarks for environmental stewardship and operational excellence in Dubai’s real estate sector. This initiative reflects the Dubai’s commitment to sustainable growth and supports the broader vision of establishing Dubai as a global leader in smart, green cities.