Dubai Airports And Etihad Clean Energy To Install World's Largest Rooftop Solar Panels At Airports

Dubai Airports has partnered with Etihad Clean Energy Development Company, a DEWA subsidiary, to initiate the largest rooftop solar panel project at an airport globally. This collaboration was announced with H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer present. The agreement was formalised during the World Green Economy Summit by Paul Griffiths of Dubai Airports and Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi of Etihad ESCO.

The initiative aligns with Dubai's vision to become a sustainable city, as outlined by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer highlighted that Dubai aims for 25% clean energy by 2030 and 100% by 2050. However, they expect to exceed these targets, potentially reaching 27% clean energy capacity by 2030, thus achieving their 2050 goals ahead of schedule.

This phased project will install 62,904 solar panels across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) airports, generating 60,346MWh annually by 2026. It represents a significant step towards decarbonising airport operations. The solar panels will cover passenger terminals and concourses at both airports.

The energy generated will offset 23,000 tonnes of CO2 each year, equivalent to removing 5,000 cars from the road or powering 3,000 homes annually. This will meet 6.5% of DXB’s power needs and 20% of DWC’s requirements, supporting Dubai Airports' vision for sustainable operations.

Paul Griffiths stated that airports are major energy consumers but have the potential to drive change. "For us, this is not just about installing solar panels; it’s about embedding sustainability into the core of everything we do," he said. Every kilowatt from renewable sources helps reduce their carbon footprint and secure future operations.

Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi emphasised the importance of their partnership with Dubai Airports in advancing Dubai's sustainability goals. By expanding solar initiatives like Shams Dubai, they aim to reduce energy demand and promote sustainable solutions across the emirate.

Building on Previous Successes

The project builds upon successful solar installations at DXB’s Terminal 2 and Concourse D, where solar power has already reduced energy consumption and emissions. While ambition drives progress, collaboration is key for sustainable transformation.

Dubai Airports remains committed to ensuring that collaboration guides every initiative in line with broader environmental objectives in Dubai and the UAE for a better future together.

With inputs from WAM