I am excited to update you on another significant milestone for both our business and our customers in the Northern Emirates. As you may be aware, Etihad Water and Electricity has announced a partnership with the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) to provide some segments of our customers with rooftop PV systems – a collaborative initiative called the Distributed Solar System Project, or DSS.

For our business, this is an important step in supporting the UAE’s net-zero plans. This project began last year with a feasibility study and an assessment of the financial and technical impacts of connecting DSS to the grid. Together with MoEI, we have developed regulations and technical guidelines for rooftop PV systems to ensure all installations meet safety, technical, and financial standards.

Initially, DSS will be available to three of our customer segments: Residential, Industrial (excluding those with preferential discounted tariffs), and Agricultural. Although consumers will not directly utilise the energy produced by their solar panels, they will benefit from reduced energy bills in return for contributing to the energy grid.  

This new partnership aligns with EtihadWE’s commitment to diversifying its operations and supporting the UAE’s strategic vision for a sustainable future. 

Through this initiative, we will reduce the UAE’s carbon footprint, give customers more choice over the energy entering their homes, and raise awareness of solar energy’s benefits. 

I look forward to updating you all as our vision for Distributed Solar in the Northern Emirates becomes a reality.