Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced today that it has completed a solar energy project that encompasses installing solar panels at 22 of its buildings and facilities. The project aims to enhance the use of renewable energy and reduce the environmental impact of the authority.
“This project aligns with Dubai’s forward-looking vision to achieve sustainable development, promote the use of renewable energy, and reduce the carbon footprint. It is expected to generate approximately 32 million kilowatt-hours annually, which will result in a reduction of around 10,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year,” stated Shaikha Ahmad Al Shaikh, director of buildings and facilities at the corporate administrative support services sector, RTA.
Solar systems installed at 16 facilities
The solar energy project also highlights RTA’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the adoption of clean energy solutions, in line with its Zero-Emissions Strategy 2050, the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030.
“The sites where solar energy systems were installed include 16 facilities affiliated with various RTA sectors and agencies, such as bus depots in Al Quoz, Al Khawaneej, and Al Rowaiyah; bus stations in Al Satwa and Oud Metha; maintenance workshops in Al Muhaisnah; as well as metro depots and other locations,” Al Shaikh added.
She also reaffirmed RTA’s commitment to complying with the standards set by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) for the distribution and installation of solar panels, ensuring they are tailored to the specific conditions, nature, and usage of each facility.
“Energy production is monitored through DEWA’s Shams Dubai Calculator, which enables real-time tracking of operational efficiency by providing live data from each site,” she added.
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RTA expands solar capacity, explores green hydrogen adoption
In 2023, Dubai’s RTA started the installation of solar energy panels at the Dubai Metro Depots at Jebel Ali and Al Qusais, as well as the Tram Depot at Al Safouh. The project produces approximately 9,959 megawatts of solar power.
Through these projects, the RTA seeks to materialize the Dubai Government’s “Shams Dubai” initiative and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy. They also contribute to the realization of RTA’s long-term strategy aimed at reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, focusing on three primary sectors: public transportation, buildings and related facilities and waste management.
The authority is also exploring the feasibility of green hydrogen-powered mobility solutions in Dubai with ENOC Group. Under the recently signed agreement, ENOC Group will supply green hydrogen fuel to RTA’s hydrogen-powered city buses. It will also provide technical support and data on green hydrogen refueling to assist RTA in conducting a comprehensive feasibility study.
Green hydrogen adoption will make RTA’s transport facilities more sustainable and environmentally friendly, in line with the UAE’s directions and plans in the domains of the green economy and environmental sustainability.
