The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) and Etihad Water and Electricity (Etihad WE) have announced the launch of UAEV, a groundbreaking joint venture that aims to develop and promote electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the UAE. This marks the UAE’s first government-owned EV charging network, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to sustainability and green transportation.
Meeting the growing EV demand
As electric vehicle sales soar globally, reaching 10 million units in 2022, the partnership between MoEI and Etihad WE aims to address the surging demand for EV infrastructure. This initiative will facilitate the transition to electric mobility for UAE residents. Moreover, it will support the country’s broader environmental goals.
“UAEV embodies the power of partnership between government and industry, and aims to provide vital electric vehicle infrastructure to boost adoption of EVs, energize communities, and unleash the economic potential of the UAE,” commented Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure.
Adopting cleaner transportation
The partnership between MoEI and Etihad WE seamlessly aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy. Hence, it will accelerate the transition to cleaner transportation and significantly reduce emissions from the transportation sector. “Together, MoEI and Etihad WE form a powerful force that can help future-proof the UAE and achieve the twin objectives of economic growth and climate action, which underpin UAEV,” stated Sharif Al Olama, Under-Secretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI and Chairman of UAEV.
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Economic and environmental impact
The deployment of EV charging infrastructure through the MoEI and Etihad WE’s UAEV will create significant economic opportunities. Hence, it will support job creation and the modernization of the UAE’s transport network. Moreover, it will play an important role in supporting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Etihad WE, with a customer base of over two million households, recognizes the growing environmental awareness among UAE consumers. “Our role as a forward-thinking utilities business has to be to anticipate their needs and arm them with the technology, products, tools, and infrastructure that supports and empowers them,” added Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of Etihad WE, board member of UAEV.
The MoEI and Etihad WE plan to reveal further details about UAEV’s initiatives and infrastructure development by the end of 2024. This joint venture represents a significant leap towards a sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the UAE. Moreover, it sets a benchmark for government-industry collaboration in promoting green initiatives.
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