National Team Evaluates Data Centres' Impact On Energy Sector In The UAE

The National Team for Reviewing the Impact of Data Centres on the Energy Sector convened its inaugural meeting at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) in Dubai. This gathering focused on the growth of data centres within the UAE and their effects on the energy sector. Discussions also centred on challenges faced by these centres, strategies for sustainability, and adopting global best practices for efficient operations.

Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, emphasised collaboration among team members to achieve objectives. He highlighted the need for innovative solutions to reduce energy consumption and improve data centre efficiency. "The formation of the National Team is part of our strategic directions towards digital transformation," he stated.

The team is responsible for analysing data centres' impact on energy demand, assessing local market conditions, and evaluating economic returns. They will identify all data centres in the UAE, classify them by specific standards, and conduct geographical studies to optimise infrastructure distribution. Benchmark comparisons will be made to review global best practices.

Saif Ghubash, Assistant Undersecretary for Petroleum, Gas, and Mineral Resources at MoEI, participated alongside representatives from various ministries and digital authorities. These include the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, and several digital government bodies across different emirates.

Al Olama stressed that forming this team aligns with national goals for digital transformation and sustainability in energy. The initiative aims to develop policies supporting sector sustainability while maintaining UAE's competitiveness in digital infrastructure. He noted that balancing technological demands with sustainable energy resources is crucial.

The meeting also addressed developing a federal policy to regulate local data centre operations. This involves creating a comprehensive framework with analytical studies and recommendations based on accurate data. Such efforts are expected to aid strategic decisions that align with national energy goals, particularly in clean and renewable energy sectors.

In conclusion, establishing a robust framework will enable informed decision-making to achieve UAE's energy objectives. The collaborative approach among various entities is vital for fostering innovation in reducing energy consumption while enhancing operational efficiency in data centres.

With inputs from WAM