In alignment with the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategy, ENOC Group, a leading integrated global energy player, today announced its partnership with SAP, the global leader in enterprise application software, and Moro Hub, a subsidiary of Digital DEWA, the digital arm of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (PJSC). This partnership will further enhance cloud solutions within the Group through ‘RISE with SAP’, a comprehensive business transformation solution to ensure sustainable digitalisation. This solution will be hosted on Moro’s Green Data Centre.
This strategic move allows ENOC to accelerate its cloud journey in a single contract through a unified package, incorporating SAP S/4HANA Cloud as a core component.
Commenting on this collaboration, H. E. Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group CEO at ENOC said: “Our partnership with SAP and Moro Hub is a statement to our commitment to the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy, and a milestone in our Group’s sustainable transformation through which we aim to create a more resilient, agile, and responsive operation.”
“Our commitment to sustainability aligns with the principles of the UAE Net Zero 2050 goals, and hosting RISE with SAP exemplifies our dedication to fostering a responsible and eco-conscious digital landscape. This collaboration is a testament to Moro Hub's role as a positive catalyst of change, where we are not just a host, but an enabler of sustainable progress. We are confident that RISE with SAP hosted in Moro Hub’s Green Data Centre will play a pivotal role in shaping a greener and more digitally advanced future for the UAE and businesses alike," said Marwan Bin Haidar, Vice Chairman & Group CEO of Digital DEWA.
The Green Data Centre, inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, holds the Guinness World Record for the largest solar-powered data centre, exemplifying its commitment to sustainable innovation and setting new industry benchmarks. In line with the UAE's sustainability agenda, the Green Data Centre is carbon-neutral and spans 100,000 square meters. With advanced security features and Tier III Certification for both design and construction, it guarantees reliability and performance. The facility, operating entirely on renewable energy sources, reflects Moro Hub's commitment to environmental stewardship.
“The implementation of RISE with SAP marks a significant milestone in our long-standing partnership with ENOC and Moro Hub. This new and exciting step underscores our shared commitment to sustainability and supports the UAE's Net Zero 2050 objectives. By harnessing the capabilities of SAP S/4HANA hosted on Moro’s green data centre, ENOC is setting a new standard for sustainable innovations," said Manos Raptopoulos, President, EMEA South, SAP.
Beyond the technological advancements, this project represents a significant leap towards sustainable digital transformation, in alignment with the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategic initiative. This partnership underscores a shared dedication to sustainability and signifies ENOC's commitment to combining technological innovation with environmental responsibility.
About ENOC Group:
ENOC Group is a leading integrated global energy player and a wholly owned entity of the Government of Dubai that is integral to the Emirate’s success. ENOC owns and operates assets in the fields of exploration & production, supply & operations, terminals, fuel retail, aviation fuel and petroleum products for commercial & industrial use. The Group’s general business operations include automotive services, non-fuel F&B retail and fabrication services. Servicing thousands of customers in over 60 markets, the Group employs a multi-national workforce of over 11,000 employees and is deploying its world-class customer service, latest innovations, and technologies as well as best practices to empower the UAE’s social and economic development. For further information, please visit: www.enoc.com
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About Moro Hub:
As part of 10X, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (PJSC) mobilised its innovation unit to create a new entity called Digital DEWA, which uses innovation in artificial intelligence and digital services to meet the current and future requirements brought about by the 4th industrial revolution. This entity required an innovative, agile data hub, and thus Moro Hub was established. Forming the backbone of Digital DEWA, Moro Hub was introduced to fulfil the need for an innovative and agile data centre. Through its purpose-built, industry-accredited data hub, Moro Hub uses its expertise, capabilities and alliances to contribute to the digital transformation of society. Trusted to secure, manage, and integrate data, Moro Hub is committed to providing value through customer-centric innovation, creating new opportunities now and in the future. For more info, please visit www.morohub.com.
About SAP:
SAP’s strategy is to help every business run as an intelligent, sustainable enterprise. As a market leader in enterprise application software, we help companies of all sizes and in all industries run at their best: SAP customers generate 87% of total global commerce. Our machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics technologies help turn customers’ businesses into intelligent enterprises. SAP helps give people and organizations deep business insight and fosters collaboration that helps them stay ahead of their competition. We simplify technology for companies so they can consume our software the way they want – without disruption. Our end-to-end suite of applications and services enables business and public customers across 25 industries globally to operate profitably, adapt continuously, and make a difference. With a global network of customers, partners, employees, and thought leaders, SAP helps the world run better and improve people’s lives. For more information, visit www.sap.com.
The 13-day Greening Education Hub, themed ‘Legacy from the Land of Zayed’, marked the end of its activities during COP28.
Hosted by the Ministry of Education, this first-of-its-kind Hub in the history of COP showcased education's vital role in addressing the global climate crisis and achieving sustainable development goals on a global scale. It attracted a diverse audience from different backgrounds and age groups, including a significant number of international visitors.
Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Education, said, “As we embarked on the launch of the Legacy from the Land of Zayed Hub, our goal was to make significant advancements in promoting climate education to address the global climate crisis. We aimed to establish a lasting legacy that could serve as a foundation for positive changes throughout the educational process, all the way to building green societies.
The Hub has successfully achieved its objectives. The UAE has inspired educational leaders to implement tangible measures, positioning education at the forefront of worldwide conversations about climate and sustainability. This supports the aim of enhancing the skills of educational cadres, raising environmental and climate awareness among students, and empowering them to become advocates for sustainability in their communities and workplaces."
Dr. Al Falasi added, “As the activities of the Greening Education Hub - Legacy from the Land of Zayed end, we simultaneously embark on a new phase. This involves ongoing collaboration with our local and international partners to underscore the importance of sustainability in the global education sector. We will achieve this through global initiatives, programmes, and partnerships, solidifying our nation's leading role in climate action and striving to create a sustainable future for generations to come."
During COP28, the First Annual Meeting of the Greening Education Partnership, which was held at the Greening Education Hub, issued a Declaration on the Common Agenda for Education and Climate Change at COP28. Through this declaration, member states of the Green Education Partnership pledged to develop national education strategies to mitigate the repercussions of climate change and to leverage the role of education to achieve net-zero emissions in the education sector.
The declaration also highlighted the member states’ pledge to enhance cooperation in all fields to provide domestic and international funding. This is to promote climate education in a way that helps bridge the gap between the current reality and climate targets.
Additionally, during the International Greening Education Ministerial Meeting, which the UAE chaired, the Ministry of Education launched two initiatives in cooperation with UNESCO. The first called for the establishment of an open-source platform on the internet to facilitate access to resources and information and exchange experiences and expertise, in order to support the adoption of green education around the world. The second initiative called for launching a ‘Sustainability Tracking Tool for Educational Institutions’ that contributes to unifying international efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of educational institutions around the world in preparation for COP29.
Furthermore, the Greening Education Hub introduced various initiatives and programmes with the goal of endorsing and fostering the implementation of green education on a global scale.
The Ministry cooperated with the Office for Climate Education and Alef Education, to unveil the Educators’ Voice platform. The initiative aims to enhance green education resources accessible to teachers and educational officials globally through open sources, empowering them to advance their climate readiness.
All Net-Zero Heroes also actively engaged in programmes offered by the Greening Education Hub that were tailored to their respective ages and interests. Each child had the opportunity to participate in approximately 15 events and workshops, assuming various roles in key speaker sessions, including ones involving a dialogue with children from the Arab world that was supported by the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood.
They also took part in discussions, including a ministerial retreat, and served as primary spokespeople representing the children of the UAE during a ceremony honouring educators. Additionally, workshops specifically designed for these heroes were conducted, covering activities such as the ‘My Home’ awareness game sponsored by the Ras Al Khaimah Municipality, a simulation session for COP28, and an appreciation ceremony to celebrate their accomplishments.
The Ministry of Education, through the Greening Education Hub, has made significant progress in attaining the objectives of the four pillars of the Green Education Partnership. Currently, 52% of schools and 36% of universities have enrolled in greening programmes, preparing for official environmental accreditation. Furthermore, all schools across the country now have access to green resources and curricula essential for promoting environmental education.
In terms of greening capacities, the Ministry is actively involved in providing climate training and qualification for one educational official and two teachers in each school nationwide. The initial phase of training for 100 master trainers has been completed, with over 1,400 educational officials and more than 10,000 teachers enrolled in training programmes to enhance their capabilities in green education.
To amplify the role of education in fostering greening communities, the Ministry has devised seven distinct business models for each of the country's emirates. The objective is to boost community engagement with climate education initiatives.
In line with its belief in the power of partnerships in bringing about sustainable change in the educational sector, the Ministry of Education signed two Memoranda of Understanding during COP28. The first MoU was with the International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC), which was aimed at developing and implementing initiatives to educate youth and students about environmental protection. The objective is to emphasise their role in shouldering responsibilities, with a focus on preserving wildlife and natural habitats, fostering understanding, and promoting sustainable behavioural change.
Additionally, the Ministry has entered into agreements with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment as well as with Bayanat. These agreements aim to bolster and advance sustainable scientific and research initiatives, including the initiation of a grant for collaborative research programmes throughout 2024.
The Greening Education Hub – Legacy from the Land of Zayed witnessed an impressive turnout during COP28, with over 50,000 visitors, surpassing expectations by over 270%.
Notably, student and academic engagement with the Hub's activities was exceptional, with more than 3,500 students from 122 schools across the country visiting over the course of 13 days. The Hub played host to 250 panel discussions and workshops, featuring the participation of over 1,000 speakers from more than 50 countries and the attendance of more than 10,000 guests.
Source: WAM
Dubai has announced an ambitious plan to achieve carbon neutrality, with a target of achieving a 50 percent reduction in emissions by the year 2030. The new plan will accelerate the momentum it has achieved in its transition towards clean energy over the last decade, backed by a clear roadmap for reaching its net-zero goal by 2050.
Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of Dubai Executive Council, reaffirmed Dubai's dedication to environmental sustainability and climate action, aligned with the Paris Agreement's objectives. “We are committed to collaborating with other global cities that share our vision for sustainability and climate action. Guided by the inspiring leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, Dubai continues to consolidate its status as a city that offers the world’s best quality of life.
"In an announcement that coincides with the UAE’s hosting of COP28, Dubai has announced its aim to double its carbon emission reduction, aiming for a 50 percent decrease by 2030. This ambitious goal is a testament to Dubai's dedication to a sustainable future, emphasising environmental protection, biodiversity, conservation of resources, a substantial increase in renewable energy, and the advancement of a green and circular economy,” he added.
Ahmad Buti Al Muhairbi, Secretary-General of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, stated, “The Supreme Council of Energy represented by key government entities has adopted a structured approach for developing prudent energy policies and clean energy projects with a focus on enhancing efficiency and fuel diversification, aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. We are proud to have achieved a significant transformation of our energy sector, marked by the adoption of a successful market-based strategy, applying the public-private partnership (PPP) model. This approach has not only facilitated the development of a robust clean energy portfolio but also catered to the rapidly growing infrastructure demands of our city.”
Mark Watts, Executive Director of C40, a global network of nearly 100 of the world's leading cities that are united in action to confront the climate crisis, said, “I congratulate Dubai on its commitment to respond to the climate crisis by addressing their biggest sources of emissions and their climate risks, through the launch of the climate action plan, in line with the science and keeping temperatures below 1.5°C. The plan, the first of a major city in the Middle East aligned with the goals of the Paris Agreement, sets out a citywide target and sectoral pathways to reduce emissions 50 percent by 2030 compared to 2018 levels. From setting up the world’s largest single-site solar park to having 75 percent of vehicles as hybrid or electric powered, Dubai’s new climate action plan stands out in the region.”
By fostering partnerships with leading regional and international organisations in clean energy, Dubai has created green funding mechanisms, balanced risks and expanded its local capabilities to play a dynamic role in driving its energy transition. This approach has sent positive signals to clean energy investors, created an attractive market for renewable technologies and led to the development of mega clean power projects. Today, Dubai has delivered exemplary projects such as the world’s largest single-site solar power park, the first hydropower plant in the region, a green hydrogen facility, a waste-to-energy plant and the production of green Aluminium.
Source: WAM
The Hashgraph Association, the non-profit organization accelerating the broad adoption of the DLT ( Distributed Ledger Technology) network Hedera globally, has today announced a co-funding initiative with UAE based Seagrass, a climate action company and subsidiary of E.ON, one of Europe's largest operators of energy networks and energy infrastructure.
This initiative facilitates the building of the Seagrass Wallet, a proof-of-concept Web3 identity wallet that provides users with a decentralized digital identity and wallet that relates to their carbon projects.
Seagrass which is based in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) financial centre UAE holds a license to arrange trades in environmental instruments from ADGM's Financial Services Regulatory Authority. Seagrass chose the UAE because of its position as the cross roads and stands where carbon credits are originated as well as demanded.
Seagrass aims to unlock the potential of the carbon markets and transform carbon finance, which can make an important contribution to the net-zero transition. This collaboration supports its goal of bringing together supply from certified projects with large-scale demand from buyers with ambitious climate strategies on a centralized marketplace driven by technology, transparency and integrity.
The Web3 identity wallet provides transparency on environmental, economical and project data to buyers and developers. Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) architecture enabled by Hedera ensures users will have a decentralized digital identity and crypto wallet that is compliant with European standards. This leading-edge Web3 digital wallet creates, stores, and presents digital identities with verifiable credentials, alongside the storage and exchange of assets.
The digital identity would put users who had been onboarded by Seagrass in charge of their credentials, potentially allowing them to save time and reduce costs by interacting with other market participants without having to go through fresh due diligence or know-your-client checks.
The proof-of-concept has been designed to be compatible with Seagrass Carbon Map, a live application available to buyers and sellers on the Seagrass marketplace that provides users with sophisticated data on the impact of nature-based projects and enables deep, ongoing engagement between project developers and carbon credit buyers. Seagrass Wallet is currently in testing and will be made available to clients in 2024.
Thomas Birr, Chief Strategy and Innovation officer at E.ON and Managing Director of Seagrass’ shareholding company, said: “We’re proud to be partnering with The Hashgraph Association and Hedera on the use of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) to unlock opportunities in the carbon markets via Seagrass. I look forward to seeing its implementation and use in 2024.”
Kamal Youssefi, President of the Board of The Hashgraph Association, said: “As we build a vibrant innovative ecosystem for startups, enterprises, and government institutions around the world, we simultaneously focus on the realization of a net zero carbon future. Combining the power of Hedera’s DLT with Seagrass’ commitment to scale the carbon markets via liquidity, integrity, and digital access for all, it also builds value on the wider engagement with E.ON.”
About The Hashgraph Association
The Hashgraph Association supports training and education programs across multiple industry verticals. In the forefront is the digital enablement and empowerment of the public through broad adoption of Hedera-powered, enterprise-grade solutions and applications in the decentralized economy, which include accreditation and certification. As a non-profit, The Association funds innovation, research, and development for the benefit of economic inclusion with a positive environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impact. For information about The Hashgraph Association, visit www.hashgraph-association.com.
About Seagrass
Seagrass is a climate action company focused on unlocking the potential of carbon markets and transforming carbon finance to accelerate the transition to net zero. A wholly-owned subsidiary of E.ON, one of Europe’s largest operators of energy networks and energy infrastructure, Seagrass is headquartered in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) financial centre. It is licensed by the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) to arrange trades in environmental instruments.
www.seagrass-climate.com
South Korea-based SEMP Group and Abu Dhabi-based Global Solutions for Project Management have launched a pathbreaking innovation that will shape the future of clean energy – the AI Smart Electromagnetic Generator (AISEG) at COP28 organized in Dubai, UAE.
AISEG is the result of nearly four years of research by experts at the SEMP Research Institute, which is now entering commercial application following its official launch at COP28. Visitors to COP28’s Green Zone at the Energy Transition Hub, a part of the Sustainability District can witness first-hand live demonstrations of the innovative technology that meets the aspirations of the world to cut emissions and transition to Net Zero by 2050, in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Zero-fuel, zero-emissions, highest efficiency
AISEG is the world’s first successful system that generates higher efficiency output compared to input power. With over 70 patents in 60 countries, it does not have any rotating parts, does not produce carbon or heat emissions, is self-powered and delivers outstanding efficiency. It has a compact footprint and near-permanent lifespan - a one-stop solution for the world's energy needs.
AISEG opens a market of infinite value with application in every field, such as automobiles by providing clean, emission-free power without fuel. Industries can generate electricity without need for power transmission and home appliances can be powered with an easy plug and play model. It also replaces the immense fuel needed for ships, planes, and carriers, and every other power source at customised power plants.
Eco-friendly solution for the power demand
“AISEG technology marks a milestone of profound significance for the world and the future of clean energy – marking a journey of innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to a sustainable tomorrow,” said Zakeya Alameri, Founder and CEO of Global Solutions for Project Management.
Woohee Choi, CEO of SEMP Research Institute Co., Ltd., said: “We are honoured to showcase our invention, the world's first non-rotation type power generation system that will transform how power is produced and consumed, at COP28. AISEG demonstrates our dedication to innovative decarbonization, delivering efficient energy while minimizing carbon emissions.”
Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster is ready to welcome GRIDSERVE, a provider of smart-connected electric vehicle charging networks, powered by clean energy generation. Announced during COP28, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and GRIDSERVE will work together with the shared ambition to accelerate support the wider growth of the UAE’s electric vehicles (EV) sector.
GRIDSERVE is a technology player in the EV transition and delivers net zero transport through its Sun-to-Wheel technology platform for EV charging networks, powered by solar energy and batteries. The company is working with ADIO to leverage Abu Dhabi’s SAVI cluster to accelerate its ambition for delivering smart connected electric vehicle Partner Networks in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Centred in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi’s fully integrated SAVI cluster provides state-of-the-art facilities, services, and regulatory framework to enable the design, testing, and manufacturing of applications for transportation and mobility on air, land and sea, as well as to service other sectors such as logistics.
Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, said: “Abu Dhabi’s SAVI cluster encompasses the entire smart and autonomous mobility value chain, from the design and manufacture of vehicles to the generation, distribution and charging of the clean energy to power them. ADIO’s collaboration with GRIDSERVE adds further depth to SAVI and is an important step in building a next generation network to power the future of mobility in the UAE and globally.”
Pioneering a shift towards sustainable mobility, the UAE has set an ambitious goal of transitioning half of its road vehicles to electric power by 2050. EV charging infrastructure is a key enabler of both this goal and the wider adoption of smart and autonomous vehicles.
Toddington Harper, CEO of GRIDSERVE, said: GRIDSERVE’s purpose is to deliver sustainable energy and move the needle on climate change. This relationship with ADIO is very exciting and has the potential to accelerate climate action and springboard GRIDSERVE’s activities in the region. We look forward to working together and the opportunity to accelerate the delivery of smart and autonomous vehicle applications across Partner Network opportunities in the region, and globally.
Abu Dhabi’s SAVI cluster builds on the strength of Abu Dhabi’s industrial base and supports the UAE’s target of half of all cars on the roads being electric by 2050. SAVI leverages Abu Dhabi’s unparalleled access to established air corridors, road infrastructure and global seaports. The cluster houses academia, test zones, R&D labs, testing and certification facilities, large scale workshops, hangars, manufacturing facilities, connected through Abu Dhabi’s global logistics network.
About ADIO
The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) enables local, regional and international investors to thrive and grow in the UAE capital through its close collaboration with government partners, sovereign investors, and national champions. ADIO is Abu Dhabi's premier platform that empowers the private sector to grow, partner and compete globally by providing access to growth opportunities, strategic partnerships and new markets across key sectors that range from real estate and infrastructure, to industries and agribusiness, enhancing the nation’s investment in talent, innovation and sustainability.
With a growing network of global offices, investors can contact ADIO by visiting its head office in Abu Dhabi or international offices located in Beijing, Frankfurt, London, New York, Paris, San Francisco, Seoul, and Tel Aviv.
Visit https://www.investinabudhabi.gov.ae/ for more information.
About Gridserve
GRIDSERVE is a forward-thinking, technology-enabled sustainable energy business. We are committed to delivering net zero transport at the speed and scale the climate crisis requires to prevent global temperature rises exceeding 1.5°C of warming.
We #deliver net zero transport through our pioneering and multi award-winning Sun-to-Wheel platform: developing, delivering and operating world class customer-focused electric vehicle charging networks powered by solar energy and batteries. We support the success of our networks and the EV transition through driving the uptake and success of electric vehicles with GRIDSERVE Car Leasing.
Everything we do is underpinned and connected by a technology-agnostic, proprietary data platform that grows and improves every day.
Visit https://www.gridserve.com for more information.
On the heels of the first week of COP28, PepsiCo, SABIC, AstroLabs and their strategic partners have announced the launch of the Mega Green Accelerator, a new initiative to nurture the next generation of innovators in the region as they develop solutions to both regional and global sustainability challenges.
The Middle East is warming almost two times faster than the global average, yet the support and investment for the sustainability innovation ecosystem in the region does not match this urgency. Since 2010, less than 50 new climate technology startups have been founded in the MENA region, compared to nearly 5,000 in Europe and the US. The Mega Green Accelerator aims to reduce this gap, foster regional collaboration and cultivate a network of MENA-based innovators addressing the most pressing sustainability challenges in the region.
The priority focus areas for the first round of the Accelerator program include circular economy, clean energy transitions, water and agriculture, some of the most pressing issues for the Middle East. In addition to seed funding and mentorship, the partners will provide participating entrepreneurs access to some of the most prominent business leaders in the region.
“Innovators in the MENA region have incredible potential for scaling and are making important strides to develop homegrown solutions to address the unique challenges the region is facing. COP28 is already putting a spotlight on climate innovations coming out of the UAE and the region at large, and PepsiCo is excited to support the next generation of climate leaders through the Mega Green Accelerator. By bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and the networks and resources they need, we are committed to supporting breakthrough start-ups as they scale sustainability solutions, grow their businesses and form critical connections,” said Eugene Willemsen, CEO of PepsiCo, Africa, Middle East, South Asia.
In addition to PepsiCo, SABIC and AstroLabs, the Accelerator will leverage its strategic partners’ unique capabilities and expertise to best support participating entrepreneurs. Investment partners Dubai Future District Fund, Venture Souq and Shurooq Partners will provide platforms for investment opportunities, mentorship in raising capital, and networking opportunities. They will also inform startup criteria and participate in the selection process to maximize investment success.
Ecosystem partners London Business School Entrepreneurship Club, Berytech, American University of Cairo Venture Lab, the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park and the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection will source applicants through their networks, amplify Accelerator information and communicate progress through their channels. Schneider Electric will support the Accelerator as a prize partner, participating in the final selection of participants.
“SABIC is proud to join with PepsiCo and other fellow partners to provide our business expertise, mentorship, resources and platform to help the brightest minds in the region reach their full potential through the Mega Green Accelerator. We believe that such cross-sector partnerships are crucial in effectively tackling complex, critical issues such as climate change. In supporting this initiative, we are not just bettering local economies, but people and planet at the same time,” said Dr.Bob Maughon, SABIC Chief Technology and Sustainability Officer.
"Our partnership with PepsiCo and SABIC comes at an exciting time - it’s a strategic step in accelerating innovation within the GCC, with a strong focus on sustainability. With the influx of international sustainable and climate-conscious companies, the region is rising as a global testbed for innovation - we will double down on creating an environment where these businesses can scale into the local markets. Our aim is to ensure the GCC not only responds to the current demand for green solutions but also pioneers the advancement of sustainable business practices on a global scale,’’ said Roland Daher, CEO, AstroLabs.
The priority focus areas of the Mega Green Accelerator align with PepsiCo’s transformation strategy, pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) and the other partners' sustainability agendas, while further driving collaboration with businesses across the region to catalyze positive impact.
In the coming months, PepsiCo and partners will share additional details and application information for the Mega Green Accelerator. To stay updated, follow PepsiCo Positive (pep+) Middle East LinkedIn page and @PepsiCo on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Leminar Global, a prominent HVAC & Plumbing Solutions provider in the GCC, proudly announces the signing of a distributorship agreement with Calpak, a leading solar thermal water heater manufacturer based in Athens, Greece. This collaboration signifies a significant stride in Leminar’s commitment to providing comprehensive and sustainable water heating solutions to the Middle East market, emphasizing the shared dedication of both entities towards technological advancement and a greener future.
Founded in 1976 as a subsidiary of British Petroleum (BP), Calpak swiftly emerged as Europe's pioneer in introducing solar energy for domestic hot water. Recognized for its technical expertise and groundbreaking research and development, Calpak stands out as a premier producer of top-tier solar thermal collectors and hot water tanks. Leminar will represent Calpak’s flagship products, including the Calpak Forced Circulation System and Calpak Xflow Fresh Water Ultratank in the UAE, while Leminar Qatar and Oman will distribute Calpak’s full product range, encompassing Thermosiphonic solar water heater systems.
Panayis Konstantinidis, Managing Director at Calpak, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "This collaboration with Leminar represents an exciting leap forward in our mission to introduce our innovative solar solutions to the Middle East market. Our production facility in Athens is recognized as the most technologically advanced in the solar thermal industry, incorporating robotic technology. Together with Leminar, we aim to introduce and expand our cutting-edge solar thermal technology to the UAE, Qatar, and Oman, contributing to the region's sustainable development goals while providing clients with reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly solutions."
Pramodh Idicheria, Chief Operating Officer of Leminar Global, commented, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Calpak, a company deeply rooted in a legacy of innovation and steadfast dedication to delivering sustainable solar solutions. Our commitment to offering an extensive range of next-generation solar-powered water heating solutions to the GCC market remains unwavering. This partnership signifies a significant stride in our dedication to sustainable manufacturing practices, as we continue to provide advanced turnkey solutions to the region, aligned with our shared commitment to making a positive environmental impact and ensuring customer satisfaction.”
Developed by Al Masaood Power Division, SHAMS+ emerges as a homegrown, first-of-its kind solar power charging station for electric vehicles and hybrid marine vessels. SHAMS+ stands out as a remarkable 100% renewable energy source that is not only carbon-neutral but also easily redeployable and demands low maintenance.
This unique characteristic positions it as a critical instrument in our collective efforts to combat global warming. This cutting-edge charging solution is designed to function as a solar power system capable of meeting the battery charging requirements for both electric vehicles and hybrid marine vessels. SHAMS+ features multiple usercapability, providing sustainable battery charging through solar energy at the highest charging speed starting from 25 minutes. The ultra-fast charging solution, coupled with its extensive network of charging stations, aims to cater comprehensively to the battery charging requirements of the automotive and maritime sectors.
Prioritising customer convenience and efficiency, SHAMS+ also operates as an off-grid high-power solution, offering enhanced flexibility and streamlined installation in various urban and rural locations, including agricultural areas, as well as in marine ports and hubs. With this pioneering project, Al Masaood aims to deliver a connectivity-enabled, seamless plug-and-charge experience. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to be at the forefront of electrification and support the rise of green mobility, and hopefully inspire wider adoption of green power and mobility solutions, thereby reducing carbon emissions and helping fast-track the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategic goals.
Al Masaood Power, which is one of the country’s oldest specialty businesses in power solutions. Established in 1970, it was the first to bring a world-class electric generator to Abu Dhabi. It is also a pioneer in energy generation, offering leading power brands such as MTU, Leroy-Somer and Volvo Penta generators and aftersales services to the UAE and Bahrain.
Dubai has announced a major new initiative charting an industry-friendly energy policy for the manufacturing sector that will serve to support and accelerate the emirate’s sustainability ambitions. The initiative also fits in with the emirate’s wider plans to develop a green economy in keeping with the Dubai Economic Agenda 2033 – D33.
Significantly strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading international hub for exporters and manufacturers, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority PJSC (DEWA) will oversee the Government of Dubai’s ambitious green economy policy for the manufacturing industry, which is to be rolled out from 1 January 2024.
The initiative will enable manufacturers, data centres and agri-tech players to install captive solar generation up to their total connected load, empowering them to meet their own demand while slashing the power costs they would normally incur and achieving a cleaner energy mix. The power policy will also accord priority to such manufacturers to purchase available international renewable energy certificates (i-RECs), thereby boosting their potential to achieve net-zero goals and sustainability targets.
Factoring in the lower energy costs and higher share of green energy, the DEWA-led initiative is aligned with the Executive Council’s strategic initiatives to boost Dubai’s industrial sector and make the city more competitive in the regional and international markets. This will also contribute to increased investments from local and international players besides encouraging and attracting manufacturers and the downstream logistics and trade ecosystem to foster stable, secure, and sustainable growth.
At a macro-economic level, the initiative will also help to advance the goals of the D33 Agenda launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to consolidate Dubai’s bid to establish itself in the top three urban economies globally. A key priority of the D33 Agenda is to champion green manufacturing as part of ongoing efforts to support the growth of the emirate’s clean energy sector.
His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD&CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority PJSC (DEWA) said: “This initiative aligns with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to further the green economy and maintain a sustainable environment to support long-term economic growth.
“The initiative will increase Dubai’s attractiveness for manufacturing investments as it allows industrial players to reduce cost of doing business and achieve clean energy targets. On the other hand, it will help Dubai accelerate its decarbonisation journey and achieve net zero targets, while reducing dependency on natural gas.”
The policy announcement coincides with the UAE’s historic hosting of the global climate summit COP28 at Expo City Dubai from 30 November to 12 December, with the increased industrial opportunities for solar power generation and environmentally responsible manufacturing set to provide a critical step forward in Dubai’s industrial ambitions and significantly reinforce its efforts to enhance sustainability initiatives. The initiative will also drive decarbonisation efforts within the emirate’s manufacturing sector in accordance with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy.
By promoting environmentally friendly and energy-efficient production in the manufacturing sector, the initiative also aids Dubai’s strategy to empower manufacturers – a core segment of the Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030, which aims to increase the overall output and value-addition of the manufacturing sector while spurring innovation and showcasing the emirate as a preferred destination for industries.
Source: Government of Dubai
