The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) has introduced a landmark Solar (Photovoltaic) Energy Self-Supply Policy, a strategic initiative designed to empower customers to generate their own clean electricity. This move aims to enhance daytime electricity efficiency and significantly increase the adoption of renewable energy across the emirate.
A Strategic Push for Energy Efficiency
The new policy is a core component of Abu Dhabi’s ambitious Energy and Water Efficiency Strategy 2030. It aligns with the emirate’s broader goals to transform energy generation and consumption, fostering a national transition towards greater reliance on renewables, particularly within sectors characterized by high electricity demand.
Alongside the policy, the DoE is releasing a guidance manual on high-efficiency appliances to improve energy-use practices across residential, commercial, and institutional sectors. This manual provides a practical framework for selecting and operating energy-efficient systems, covering key areas like cooling, lighting, and irrigation.
Empowering Consumers with Flexible Solutions
Under the new framework, customers have the flexibility to either continue drawing power from the grid or adopt self-sufficient energy solutions. The policy explicitly supports the installation of photovoltaic (PV) systems for self-consumption, the use of solar-powered water heaters, and the integration of battery energy storage systems to ensure power availability, including during evening hours.
These measures are projected to improve overall grid efficiency, enhance the security of the energy supply, and stimulate growth within Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy sector.
Initial Rollout Targeting Agricultural Sector
The Solar Energy Self-Supply Policy will initially be applied to the agricultural sector, including owners of rest houses and ranches. This targeted approach provides these users with improved access to renewable energy sources, offering potential cost savings and greater energy independence through the deployment of solar and battery storage solutions.
A Milestone for the Emirate’s Energy Sector
Abdulaziz Al Obaidli, Director General of Regulatory Affairs at the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, highlighted the policy’s significance. “The launch of the Photovoltaic Energy Self-Supply Policy marks a major milestone for the sector, supporting a more diverse energy mix and greater use of renewables, while enabling communities to contribute to the goals of the Abu Dhabi Energy and Water Efficiency Strategy 2030,” he stated.
He added that the Department’s policies are crafted to deliver long-term value, strengthen infrastructure efficiency, and promote environmentally and economically sustainable energy consumption. This initiative is also aligned with the Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy, reinforcing the emirate’s commitment to reducing emissions and enhancing resilience across its energy infrastructure.
About the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy
The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) is the government body responsible for ensuring the excellence and sustainability of the energy sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It is tasked with developing and implementing policies, regulations, and strategies to support the emirate’s vision for a secure, reliable, and environmentally responsible energy future.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
