Sustainability Is Now A Strategic Necessity For Governments, According To Schneider Electric MEA President Walid Sheta

Walid Sheta, President of the Middle East & Africa Zone at Schneider Electric, stated that sustainability has shifted from being an ethical choice to a strategic necessity for both governments and businesses globally. He stressed the importance of energy efficiency in cutting carbon emissions, equating its significance to the shift towards clean and renewable energy sources.

Speaking at the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai, Sheta noted that cities and buildings contribute to 70% of global carbon emissions. This makes digital solutions vital for reducing energy use and boosting efficiency. He pointed out that governments are increasingly adopting these solutions, with the UAE serving as a regional model due to its extensive solar power projects.

Sheta elaborated on smart cities, which integrate clean energy like solar and wind with advanced tech to improve efficiency. Desalination plants, known for high energy consumption, can cut their usage by 50% using advanced software and efficient equipment. This approach not only saves energy but also reduces operational costs significantly.

Schneider Electric has initiated a programme in the UAE involving over 50 factories aimed at optimising their energy use. This initiative has led to reductions in energy consumption ranging from 10% to 20%, thereby lowering costs and enhancing competitiveness in global markets.

Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in enhancing energy efficiency through smart data analytics. These analytics help factories and large retail outlets like supermarkets identify optimal consumption patterns. By analysing data, businesses can determine the best times to operate equipment such as air conditioning units and ovens based on customer footfall, seasonal changes, and peak hours.

This data-driven approach allows businesses to minimise waste without compromising user experience. It ensures that operations are aligned with demand, leading to more efficient energy use and cost savings.

Sheta highlighted how digital solutions are essential for improving energy efficiency in urban areas. The UAE's large-scale solar power plants exemplify successful adoption of such technologies. These plants serve as models for other regions aiming to reduce carbon footprints while maintaining economic growth.

The focus on sustainability is not just about reducing emissions but also about enhancing competitiveness in global markets. By adopting advanced technologies and optimising energy use, businesses can achieve significant cost savings while contributing positively to environmental goals.

Sustainability is now a strategic imperative rather than just an ethical consideration. With cities being major contributors to carbon emissions, integrating digital solutions is crucial for achieving significant reductions in energy consumption worldwide.

With inputs from WAM