DEWA Boosts Dubai's Power Grid With AED1.36 Billion Investment In New Substations

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has commissioned eight new 132 kV transmission substations in the first half of 2024. These substations have a conversion capacity of 1,200 megavolt-amperes (MVA) and cost AED1.36 billion. This initiative aligns with DEWA’s aim to support Dubai's urban growth.

The new substations are located in Al Thanya 3, Al Barsha South 4, Wadi Al Shabak, Nadd Hessa, International City Phase 2, Wadi Al Safa 5, and Umm Suqeim 3. These projects also included laying down 89 kilometres of ground cable to enhance the efficiency of the 132kV transmission network in Dubai.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, mentioned that some substations serve residential neighbourhoods for Emirati citizens. This is part of an integrated housing plan under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The plan aims to improve the quality of life for Emiratis and was launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Hussain Lootah, Executive Vice President of Transmission Power at DEWA, stated, "The total number of transmission substations across Dubai reached 382 by the end of June 2024. This includes 27 400 kV substations and 355 132 kV substations." He added that there are currently 31 more 132 kV transmission substations under construction.

DEWA plans to issue new tenders over the next three years to build more than 50 additional 132 kV transmission substations. They also aim to extend their ground transmission cables by another 350 kilometres. DEWA is reviewing financial proposals for six new 132 kV transmission substations as part of this expansion.

In addition to these developments, DEWA has awarded contracts for ten more 132 kV substations in various areas across Dubai. These areas include Al Aweer 1, Umm Nahad 4, Al Manara, Umm Suqeim 2, Al Quoz Industrial 3, Hatta, Al Barsha South 3, Al Barsha 2, Wadi Al Safa 4, and Zabeel 2. The total cost for these projects is AED1 billion.

Enhancing Infrastructure

To connect the new transmission substations to the main electricity grid, DEWA has also awarded projects to extend ground cables by a total length of up to 25 kilometres. The total cost for these cable extension projects is AED176 million.

The completion of these new substations required over eight million safe working hours using advanced global digital technologies for transmission substations. This effort underscores DEWA’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure efficiently and safely.

This series of projects reflects DEWA’s ongoing efforts to meet the growing demand for electricity in Dubai while supporting urban development and improving residents' quality of life.

With inputs from WAM