HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), recently inspected the newly completed 132/11 kV digital substation at Nad Hessa. This facility has been designed to meet increasing energy demands while setting benchmarks in digital optimization and sustainability. The substation employs advanced technologies in control systems, digital communications, cybersecurity, and equipment monitoring and protection, contributing to the stability of the electricity grid.
The project aligns with DEWA’s strategic goal to become the world’s first AI-native utility by integrating artificial intelligence across its core operations, including energy production, transmission, and distribution. The construction of the substation cost over AED 93.322 million and was completed five months ahead of schedule without any injuries during 649,064 safe man-hours.
Al Tayer highlighted the significance of this development in supporting Dubai’s ambitious energy objectives. He stated that the substation reflects DEWA’s dedication to providing world-class infrastructure that caters to the emirate’s growing energy needs while aligning with both the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy and the Dubai Net-Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. DEWA has received recognition for its innovative design by winning the Emirates Innovates Award.
“This substation is not just an infrastructure project but a step towards strengthening Dubai’s position as a global leader in clean energy and smart cities,” said Al Tayer. “The substation has achieved a 57% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to 54.24 tonnes annually.”
Hussain Lootah, Executive Vice President of Transmission Power at DEWA, added: “The digital substation, with a total capacity of 150 megavolt-amperes, underlines DEWA’s commitment to operational excellence, sustainability and technological innovation.”
The facility features an innovative design with integrated facilities within a single building to minimize space usage while enhancing secure data communication through advanced security technologies like remote-control systems. It has also earned several prestigious awards such as the Green Apple Environment Award 2023 and the Green World Award 2023 for its sustainable innovations.
