Dubai Electricity and Water Authority is exploring new avenues of cooperation with the UK Space Agency after a meeting between HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer and Deputy CEO Chris White Horne on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow.
The discussion focused on how space based technologies can strengthen the efficiency and sustainability of electricity and water services in Dubai.
The talks were held at Dubai World Central and attended by senior Dewa officials including Marwan Bin Haidar and Dr Yousef Al Akraf. Both sides examined opportunities to align the utility’s expanding space capabilities with the UK’s ambitions in the global space sector.
Al Tayer highlighted the progress of Dewa’s Space D programme, launched in 2021, which made the utility the first in the world to deploy nanosatellites to enhance planning and operations. He noted that the programme supports the UAE National Space Strategy 2030 and advances the integration of technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT and blockchain across Dewa’s operations.
The initiative also contributes to Dubai’s clean energy and net zero goals by improving monitoring at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. Enhanced satellite data helps support the emirate’s target of generating all its energy from clean sources by 2050.
Dewa’s orbital assets include the Dewa SAT 1 nanosatellite launched in 2022 to test long range communications for monitoring remote assets, and Dewa SAT 2 launched in 2023 to deliver high resolution imagery and greenhouse gas measurements. A dedicated ground station at the solar park supports the system.
Al Tayer said Dewa aims to build international partnerships that accelerate innovation and strengthen utility sustainability. White Horne praised the programme and said there is strong potential for collaboration that could raise global standards for how space technology can support essential services.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
