Energy

TAQA has launched a new brand identity. (Image source: TAQA)

Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), the integrated utility company, has launched a new brand identity for its group of companies

The rebranding underpins the company’s strategy to increase awareness of extent of TAQA’s utility activity covering the entire utility value chain, as it pursues growth through delivering integrated power and water services in the UAE and internationally.

Under the new brand identity, Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC) and Al Ain Distribution Company (AADC) will be brought under a single new brand, TAQA Distribution; Abu Dhabi Transmission and Despatch Company (TRANSCO) will become TAQA Transmission; Sustainable Water Solutions Holdings (SWS Holdings) will be rebranded as TAQA Water Solutions; and Abu Dhabi Energy Services (ADES) will become TAQA Energy Services.

Boosting awareness

Jasim Husain Thabet, TAQA’s Group chief executive officer and managing director, commented, “In the past four years we have been driving improvements in the performance of TAQA’s operating companies and growing our business. These changes to the brands of our operating companies will provide a major boost to the awareness and understanding of the scale and breadth of TAQA’s role in Abu Dhabi and the scope of our activities as one of the largest integrated utilities in EMEA and a national champion for the UAE. TAQA’s operations underpin part of the daily life of millions of people globally through the power and water services we provide. We take our responsibility very seriously and are determined to continue to be at the heart of the UAE drive towards net zero and to play our role in the energy transition.”

Omar Al Hashmi, TAQA Distribution’s incoming chief executive officer, added, “ADDC and AADC have powered our communities for decades, ensuring that essential energy and water is delivered to every home in Abu Dhabi. Unifying the two will create a distribution powerhouse, with the scale and capability to support TAQA’s overarching mission of being a low-carbon power and water champion.

“Combining the strengths and talents of both into a single entity will enhance the service we provide to our customers while also creating a more dynamic and more innovative organisation. As TAQA Distribution, we are committed to continuing to serve our communities while adhering to the utmost standards of excellence.

“Moving into 2025, the rebrand will allow TAQA’s market leading businesses to build on their track record of operational excellence, with a continued focus on building its digital and advanced technology capabilities and strengthening its strategic partnerships to support TAQA’s long-term growth in line with the Group’s sustainability and ESG targets.”

The mid-size BESS units are engineered to deliver reliable power in demanding conditions. (Image source: Aggreko)

Aggreko has introduced two new mid-size Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to support regional businesses in their shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

These new plug-and-play systems, available in 500 KW and 250 KW capacities, are designed to meet a broad spectrum of energy storage needs for industrial and commercial applications. They optimise overall system performance, cut operational costs, and significantly lower carbon emissions.

The mid-size BESS units are engineered to deliver reliable power in demanding conditions, providing versatility, efficiency, and dependability. These batteries can operate independently, as part of a hybrid setup with a generator, or in combination with additional BESS units. They are particularly well-suited for renewable energy projects across various sectors, including events, construction, petrochemicals, utilities, data centres, and mining.

These systems are eco-friendly, helping companies comply with emission standards while their rapid installation and commissioning reduce generator usage and fuel consumption, leading to cost savings and greater operational independence. Aggreko's renowned customer support, including remote monitoring, ensures that the units deliver consistent and uninterrupted service.

Adam Read, head of sales - Middle East, Aggreko, stated, “We are excited to introduce our new mid-sized Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to the regional market. They can be used as a standalone power source or in combination with mobile solar panels, wind or generators. To meet the constantly evolving energy demands of businesses, our BESS units are made scalable to match changing needs. A single unit can be easily combined into an integrated energy storage system to deliver the power and energy capacity required for any business. Incorporating batteries can be a significant step toward sustainability for any company. Additionally, battery-based solutions can provide reliable emission-free energy for specific processes while reducing fuel costs.”

The mid-size BESS units also help manage fluctuating loads by storing surplus energy for future use, improving reliability, and eliminating low-load periods. Ready for immediate deployment, these systems include all essential components like batteries, inverters, HVAC, and fire protection. Both units feature an ECO controller, which simplifies the monitoring and control of all integrated systems. With zero emissions, no noise, and minimal maintenance requirements, these systems enable businesses to reduce their environmental impact.

The solar power generated will be absorbed back into the grid, contributing to the renewable energy supply in the Northern Emirates. (Image soure: EtihadWE)

EtihadWE has partnered with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) on a collaborative initiative aimed at promoting the utilisation of renewable energy in the Northern Emirates.

The Distributed Solar System (DSS) project allows EtihadWE customers to generate solar power through rooftop PV systems installed on their properties, with the generated power being fed back into the grid, boosting the overall supply of renewable energy.

The project aligns with the wise directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for the sustainable and clean energy development of the UAE’s energy sector.

Launched in July 2023, the project began with a feasibility study to assess the financial and technical impacts of connecting DSS to the grid. EtihadWE has also developed regulations and technical guidelines for the systems in cooperation with MoEI.

As the certified installer, EtihadWE will provide certified contractors to install the solar panels, ensuring compliance with the latest safety standards.

Through this initiative, EtihadWE customers—including residential, industrial, and agricultural sectors—will have access to rooftop PV systems, allowing them to generate solar energy.

Renewables in the UAE

The solar power generated will be absorbed back into the grid, contributing to the renewable energy supply in the Northern Emirates.

While consumers will not directly utilise the energy produced by their solar panels, they will benefit from reduced energy bills by contributing to the renewable energy grid.

Participants in the initiative will have two meters: one to measure energy exported to the grid and another to measure energy imported. Each month, the exported vs imported energy will be tracked. If exports exceed imports, the excess energy will be credited to the customer’s account for use within the same year.

This initiative is part of a long-term strategy to increase accessibility to renewable energy in the Northern Emirates.

The project aims to create a more sustainable energy supply that reduces the carbon footprint and promotes cleaner energy sources.

His Excellency Eng Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, stated, “The DSS project is a major contribution to the UAE’s shift to clean energy sources. It reflects our steadfast commitment to fast-tracking renewable energy deployment and the country’s sustainable development. We are pleased to partner with EtihadWE on this project that will pave the way for wider community engagement in building a more sustainable, energy-secure future.”

He added, “The project supports the long-term objectives of the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, including increasing the contribution of clean energy generation to 32%, ensuring the country is on track to meet its commitment to tripling the share of renewable energy by 2030 in line with the UAE Consensus. Such projects significantly contribute to enhancing the UAE’s global competitiveness rankings.”

EtihadWE CEO, Yousif Ahmed Al Ali remarked, “This major solar initiative marks a significant step in EtihadWE’s progress towards enhancing renewable energy in the Northern Emirates. We are embracing new technology to improve our operations, offer, products and customer service, whilst making our commitment to sustainability clear.”

“Through this project, we demonstrate our dedication to aligning our strategic approach with the UAE government’s directives to transition towards a future fuelled by sustainable energy.”

For businesses, the new project will lower operational costs and contribute to the development of more sustainable business models. The roll-out will commence with industrial customers in the initial phase.

EtihadWE also plans to host a series of workshops to educate customers on the initiative and its benefits, encouraging the broader adoption of solar energy solutions.

The service began on 12 September. (Image source: Abu Dhabi Mobility)

The Integrated Transport Centre of Abu Dhabi has officially launched its green bus service, starting on 12 September.

This new fleet is powered by clean hydrogen and electric energy, marking a significant advancement in the Green Bus Programme, spearheaded by Abu Dhabi Mobility.

The programme aims to transform Abu Dhabi Island into a public transport green zone by 2030. As part of this initiative, a pioneering study was conducted—the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi and the wider region—to evaluate the feasibility and performance of hydrogen and electric buses under local climate and urban conditions.

Given the scarcity of research in the region, the study involved in-depth technical assessments of various bus models in collaboration with international manufacturers, government entities, and global agencies.

The new green bus service will operate on Route 65, connecting Marina Mall with Shams Boutik on Al Reem Island.

Green Bus Programme: a comprehensive action plan

Abu Dhabi's Green Bus Programme is a wide-ranging strategy focused on assessing and managing the emirate's public transport bus fleet. Its aim is to evaluate the most appropriate hydrogen and electric-powered technologies and offer these sustainable transport options to residents, visitors, and commuters. This will be achieved through partnerships with international government bodies and bus manufacturers, ensuring solutions are well-suited to the local environment. The programme also includes enhancing Emirati skills through specialised training programmes and practical learning experiences in South Korea and China.

Launched in November 2023, the assessment phase of the Green Bus Programme will conclude in June 2025. During this period, bus operators and drivers will undergo both theoretical and practical training, facilitated by Abu Dhabi Mobility’s partners. Certified technicians will also receive ongoing training to ensure they are prepared to handle daily maintenance and inspections of the green buses.

As the public bus system transitions from diesel to renewable energy, it is expected to cut annual carbon dioxide emissions in Abu Dhabi by over 100,000 metric tonnes.