DEWA International Forges Global Partnership with Shanghai Electric to Drive Energy and Water Investments

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority's (DEWA) international arm has inked a significant agreement with China's Shanghai Electric, aiming to explore and develop energy and water investments across global markets. This strategic move aligns with Dubai's ambition to broaden its influence in the international utilities sector.

The memorandum of understanding lays the groundwork for potential projects spanning solar and wind energy, advanced battery storage solutions, desalination technologies, the burgeoning field of green hydrogen, and conventional power generation. It also encompasses electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure.

This framework will facilitate the identification, evaluation, development, and investment in various projects, including active participation in international tenders. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, managing director and chief executive of DEWA and chairman of DEWA International, emphasized the commitment to global expansion and forging strategic alliances. "At DEWA International, we are committed to expanding our presence in global markets and building strategic partnerships that leverage Dubai's pioneering expertise in the utilities sector and the global capabilities of our partners," stated Al Tayer.

The agreement was formally signed by Waleed bin Salman, vice chairman of DEWA International, and Shen Bing, president of Shanghai Electric Power Generation Group. This collaboration signifies a crucial step for DEWA International in solidifying its position as a leading global developer of energy and water infrastructure.

DEWA established its international subsidiary in June with the explicit goal of pursuing overseas projects and partnerships, capitalizing on Dubai's extensive experience in developing large-scale electricity, water, and clean energy infrastructure. The company intends to collaborate with governments, developers, and financial institutions to pinpoint investment opportunities and engage in projects beyond the UAE.

Mr. Al Tayer previously highlighted the substantial global demand for energy and water infrastructure, projecting it to surpass $20 trillion by 2035, presenting significant opportunities for international expansion.

DEWA is renowned for operating the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, one of the world's largest solar developments, which has cemented Dubai's reputation in renewable energy. The utility continues to enhance its renewable energy capacity, with plans for the seventh phase of the solar park, which will include large-scale battery storage.

Shanghai Electric, a prominent Chinese company specializing in power equipment and engineering, brings considerable expertise in developing and supplying technology for large-scale energy projects. The two entities have a prior working relationship, having collaborated on the fourth phase of Dubai's Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, a project valued at Dh15.78 billion.

The latest agreement also opens avenues for potential cooperation in green ammonia, concentrated solar power, and the supply of equipment for the oil and gas sector. DEWA has a history of investing in green hydrogen production, including a pilot facility developed in conjunction with Siemens Energy at the solar park.

It is important to note that this partnership remains exploratory, with no specific overseas projects, investment commitments, or development timelines announced at this stage.