Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has unveiled strong operational results from the world's first AI driven Gas Turbine Intelligent Controller, developed in partnership with Siemens Energy, marking a major step in the emirate's push toward fully autonomous utility management.
The system has lifted generation capacity across 14 gas turbine units at the Jebel Ali Power and Desalination Complex by nearly 28.9 megawatts, delivering capital expenditure savings of around AED38.95 million. It combines digital twin technology, thermodynamic sciences and AI algorithms to enable real time, autonomous control of turbine operations.
Beyond capacity gains, the controller has produced annual operating expenditure savings of approximately AED8.72 million through improved fuel efficiency. It has also cut carbon emissions by about 28,530 tonnes a year and reduced nitrogen oxide emissions by roughly 22.9 tonnes annually, reinforcing DEWA's sustainability goals.
The innovation earned a seven star rating at the International Best Practice Competition, where it was recognised as a global benchmark for applying AI to power generation efficiency and environmental performance.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of DEWA, said the project reflects Dubai's continued adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. He added that the achievement highlights the capability of DEWA's workforce to build pioneering solutions that strengthen the authority's global standing in innovation.
Nasser Lootah, Executive Vice President of Generation at DEWA, said the controller enables faster, more accurate decision making by combining AI, machine learning and thermodynamic modelling to monitor and optimise turbine performance in real time.
The recognition further cements Dubai's position as a global hub for energy innovation, as DEWA continues its transformation into what it describes as the world's first fully AI native utility.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
