Abu Dhabi Department Of Energy Successfully Completes Gas Systems Remediation Project Across Over 2,400 Buildings

The Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi (DoE) has successfully wrapped up the Gas Systems Remediation project, achieving a 100% completion rate. This initiative, which started in August 2023, recorded over 200,000 safe working hours. It forms part of the ongoing efforts to enhance gas system safety across the Emirate.

Dr. Saif Saeed Al Qubaisi, Acting Director General of Regulatory Affairs at DoE, highlighted the importance of safety for residents and properties in Abu Dhabi. He stated: "Safety is a collective effort and a shared responsibility among all stakeholders in this sector. Building owners play a vital role in maintaining the safety and security of the community."

The project inspected over 3,100 buildings throughout the Emirate. More than 2,400 buildings were successfully remediated, including over 200 high-risk ones that received urgent attention. Additionally, 550 previously undetected gas leaks were identified and repaired. All gas filling lines were moved outside buildings to enhance safety.

Eng Ahmed Alsheebani, Executive Director of Petroleum Products Regulatory Affairs Sector at DoE, remarked on Abu Dhabi's leadership in safe gas usage. He said: "Abu Dhabi continues to lead in ensuring the safe use of gas systems, recognizing gas as a vital resource that impacts various aspects of daily life and plays a key role—alongside clean and renewable energy sources—in supporting the stability of the energy sector."

Alsheebani expressed gratitude towards several authorities for their support in implementing this campaign. These include the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED), Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), Abu Dhabi Police, Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority (ADCDA), and Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Center.

The project also involved replacing over 450 gas tanks and control panels while installing more than 10,000 gas leak detectors inside kitchens. This comprehensive approach ensures enhanced safety for all residents.

Regulatory Compliance for Property Owners

According to Executive Regulations for Gas Works in Buildings, property owners must sign an annual maintenance contract with a DoE-approved gas operator. Regular inspections by independent third-party companies are mandatory to ensure compliance with safety standards.

A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from DoE is essential for property owners to confirm their gas systems' safety and operability. This certificate is crucial for obtaining the ISTIFAA from the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority.

Al Qubaisi acknowledged building owners' cooperation: "I would like to express my gratitude to the building owners in Abu Dhabi for their significant efforts and cooperation." Their collaboration was pivotal in achieving a safer energy sector for the Emirate.

With inputs from WAM