DEWA’s R&D Centre Marks A Milestone With 221 Scientific Publications In International Forums By End Of 2023

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has made significant strides in the field of scientific research, with its Research and Development (R&D) Centre publishing 73 Scopus-indexed scientific and research papers in 2023. These contributions span a variety of critical topics such as solar energy, water, energy efficiency, smart grid integration, space, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This achievement raises the total number of scientific publications from the centre to 221 by the end of last year, marking a substantial contribution to both local and international scientific communities.

The R&D Centre boasts a team of highly skilled Emirati professionals, including 29 PhD and master’s degree holders. Remarkably, the Emiratisation rate at the Centre has reached 74 percent, with Emirati female employees constituting 40 percent of the workforce. This diverse team is at the forefront of advancing innovative scientific research under the guidance of Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.

Al Tayer highlighted the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to promote advanced scientific research. This vision aligns with strategic initiatives such as the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. DEWA's commitment to fostering an environment that encourages creativity and innovation is evident in its efforts to facilitate knowledge exchange and enhance partnerships between government and academic sectors.

The R&D Centre is equipped with advanced international technologies and facilities, including Internet of Things (IoT) facilities, DEWA’s Robotics & Drone laboratory, the world’s first 3D-printed laboratory, and a ground station for DEWA’s Space-D programme. These resources support DEWA's mission to lead innovation, research, and development across various operational areas.

Al Tayer commended the diverse team of researchers and academics at the R&D Centre for their role in enhancing the UAE's competitiveness in scientific research. Their work contributes significantly to global efforts towards a sustainable economy based on knowledge and innovation. The published papers underscore the capability of national talents to compete on a global scale and actively contribute to shaping a sustainable future.

Waleed Bin Salman, Executive Vice President of Business Development and Excellence at DEWA, emphasized the Centre's focus on key research areas supported by three enablers: Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies (including AI, IoT, Robotics & Drones, 3D Printing & Advanced Materials), Energy System Analyses, and Space. The DEWA Space programme (Space-D) aims to develop innovative solutions for future energy and water systems.

This initiative not only showcases DEWA's commitment to advancing scientific research but also positions Dubai as a leading destination for scholars and researchers in the clean and renewable energy sector. Through continuous knowledge enhancement and talent cultivation, DEWA aims to maintain its status as one of the best utilities worldwide.

With inputs from WAM