The global energy and water sector is undergoing a radical transformation. The World Utilities Congress 2025 served as a pivotal event bringing together industry leaders to address major challenges and, more importantly, to renew their long-term commitment to building a sustainable future. The sector faces significant pressures, from accelerating population growth to worsening climate risks, to the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions. Yet, opportunities for innovation and collaboration remain within reach.
In this context, the UAE, with its proven track record of ambitious climate action, continues to lead this transformation. From the historic UAE Agreement at COP28 to its ongoing efforts to develop sustainable infrastructure, the country has demonstrated that rapid growth can be matched by smart resource efficiency. Utilities companies are a key element in this equation, balancing the provision of vital services with achieving the country's sustainability goals.
Achieving long-term goals
The UAE's development journey is based on two interconnected priorities: diversifying the economy and effectively managing limited natural resources. In our desert environment, addressing water scarcity requires advanced solutions, and reverse osmosis desalination is a clear example. EWEC is the only utility company in the country to rely entirely on this technology for its production processes. This is a strategic shift, given that reverse osmosis is more energy-efficient than traditional thermal desalination methods. Our Naqaa plant, one of the largest reverse osmosis plants in the world, reached full capacity of 150 million gallons per day in 2022, demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach.
At the same time, we must meet the growing demand for energy within a clear path to reducing emissions. The updated version of the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 sets a national ambition to triple the share of renewable energy and attract investments ranging between AED 150 and 200 billion by 2030.
Utilities remain the cornerstone of this transformation, ensuring continuity of service and providing crucial support for achieving carbon neutrality goals.
This challenge is not unique to the UAE; other arid regions, such as Southern California and parts of Australia, face similar climate pressures, prompting them to develop advanced water and energy solutions. Therefore, the UAE's experience can serve as an inspiring and useful model for these regions.
Success in this changing landscape requires a delicate balance between capacity expansion and sustainability. First, utilities must expand their capacity economically while simultaneously reducing emissions. The UAE Energy Strategy 2050 aims to improve energy efficiency by 42-45% by 2030, compared to 2019 levels, while reducing emissions to support the UAE's Climate Neutrality Strategy 2050. This transformation requires widespread adoption of smart grids, demand forecasting using artificial intelligence, and digital optimization—technologies that are no longer optional but essential for future-proofing infrastructure.
Second, technology alone cannot bring about the desired transformation; consumers must be involved in this process. Promoting a culture of responsible consumption has become essential, and behavioral awareness campaigns, based on global best practices and the outcomes of specialized conferences, such as the World Utilities Congress 2025, are effective tools for empowering individuals to play their part in achieving sustainability.
Third, promising initiatives, such as solar-powered desalination and smart leak detection technologies, must be scaled up to maximize impact and achieve tangible results. The national goal of increasing clean energy production capacity from 14.2 to 19.8 gigawatts by 2030, and increasing its share of the total energy mix to 30%, embodies this ambitious drive toward a sustainable future.
Towards a decisive step.
A true transformation in the utilities sector depends on the collective commitment of all stakeholders. A supportive regulatory environment, strong public-private partnerships, and targeted incentives can accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions, such as AI-powered smart grids and decentralized water systems. Companies also have a unique opportunity to leverage data and develop loyalty programs that encourage sustainable behavior, transforming customers into active contributors to the energy and water transition. Individuals can make a real difference by adopting accessible, smart technologies and rethinking consumption patterns. Every small step, from installing a smart thermostat to reducing water waste, contributes to our shared success.
The UAE's experience demonstrates that economic growth and environmental conservation are not mutually exclusive. Through innovation, collaboration, and a clear national vision, utility companies can lead the way toward a sustainable future. The Federal Electricity and Water Authority remains committed to building integrated utility models that look to the future and serve both people and the environment, ensuring a more prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.