UAE's New Sustainability Regulation Targets Industrial Energy Consumption

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI), in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), initiated a panel discussion on the Federal Regulation for Energy Management in Industrial Facilities. This event took place on the first day of the "Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) Forum". The regulation, a pioneering effort in the industrial sector, aims to enhance operational excellence in energy management, reduce consumption, and accelerate decarbonisation among industrial companies.

The discussion focused on the regulation's impact on the industrial sector and outlined a roadmap towards sustainable development. The session highlighted various incentives and enablers designed to improve energy efficiency and drive positive change across the industry. Ahmed Al Kaabi, Assistant Undersecretary for Electricity, Water and Future Energy Sector at MoEI, emphasised that the workshop offers stakeholders an opportunity to discuss how the regulation supports the objectives of the National Energy and Water Demand Side Management Programme.

Al Kaabi stated that the regulation aims to reduce energy demand by 33%, improve air quality by 32%, and contribute to a 63-million-ton reduction in carbon emissions by 2050 within the industrial sector. He noted, "The regulation reflects the ministries' commitment to pioneering the shift towards sustainable resource use and promoting innovation in energy management. The national program seeks to create an integrated, sustainable industrial ecosystem that contributes to achieving the UAE's environmental and economic objectives."

National Strategy for Industry

Osama Amir Fadhel, Assistant Undersecretary of the Industry Accelerators Sector at MoIAT, discussed the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, known as Operation 300bn. This strategy includes initiatives aimed at boosting investment attractiveness, growth, and competitiveness in the industrial sector. Fadhel highlighted that improving energy efficiency is crucial for reducing emissions and enhancing sustainable practices in industrial facilities.

Collaborative Efforts

"We are collaborating with MoEI, local governments, and the private sector to launch initiatives supporting industrial sustainability," Fadhel said. This collaboration involves developing regulations and promoting technological transformation under the 'Make it in the Emirates' initiative. These efforts aim to enhance investment attractiveness and competitiveness while reducing energy costs.

Regulating Energy Consumption

The ministry prioritises regulating energy consumption in high-usage industrial sectors. The Federal Regulation on Energy Management in Industrial Facilities encourages companies to innovate and improve energy efficiency, thereby creating more investment opportunities. This regulation is part of a broader effort to foster sustainable practices within the UAE's industrial landscape.

With inputs from WAM