The Department of Energy (DoE) in Abu Dhabi has signed an MoU with the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC) to build a strong, highly efficient smart energy and power system utilising diversified sources, particularly clean energy. 

 

The MoU is in line with the overall strategy of the energy sector of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the UAE to drive sustainable development through energy transition and to achieve net zero by the year 2050. 

 

The scope of the MoU encompasses a feasibility study on decarbonisation and upgrading the power system of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the UAE. It will also include cost-benefit and improvement studies that will enhance demand-side management and network flexibility. Additionally, the MoU will also improve power grid interconnections with the signatories to the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA). 

 

Upgrading network

The partnership will upgrade the domestic power network to improve overall network efficiency, augmenting the social benefits offered by the UAE. The MoU also entails the development of the underground gas-insulated cables and lines project, encouraging the implementation of smart grids, adoption of Advanced Meter Infrastructure (AMI) automation distribution systems and the integration of the Smart Internet of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Micro-Grid.

 

The MoU was signed by Engineer Awaida Murshid Al Marar, Chairman of DoE in Abu Dhabi, and Xin Baoan, Chairman of the International Cooperation Organisation for the Development of the Global Energy Grid, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of SGCC.

 

Al Marar said: “The Memorandum of Understanding aligns with the Department's commitment to strengthen collaborations and to foster the exchange of global experiences and expertise within the energy sector.” His Excellency further emphasised that this cooperation will enhance efficiency, boost productivity, optimise operations, and facilitate the seamless transfer of knowledge and technology. 

 

A critical point

He said: "We stand at a critical point in our shift toward clean energy. We are implementing impactful policies to bring significant enhancements to our electricity network. Our focus is on elevating operational efficiency through the integration of smart grids powered by AI tools. We also stand committed to building local capabilities for the effective operation and maintenance of these networks."

 

He also affirmed DoE's commitment to climate action initiatives: "We will continue working towards considerable reductions in carbon emissions within the energy sector by adopting state-of-the-art technologies that align with international best practices to advance sustainable practices in energy management."

 

Baoan welcomed highlighted the significance of leveraging opportunities for collaboration and integration as the two entities transition towards clean energy. He stressed the significant role of regional energy networks and also on the importance of employing digitalisation to build more efficient and smart networks. Baoan said: “Our relationship with DoE will foster Chinese-Emirati cooperation and will advance the transformation in the wider global energy sector.”

 

Training and capability building

The memorandum includes training and capability building strategies for improved power grid operations, implementing policies and strategies to reduce energy losses on the power grid and related infrastructure, and adopting technologies supporting automation and artificial intelligence.

 

Playing an integral part in advancing China's clean energy transition efforts, SGCC has a proven track record in renewable energy. This strategic relationship will accelerate both the countries’ shared vision to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 through innovation and energy efficiency.--TradeArabia News Service