Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) has announced the successful commissioning of eight new 132 kV transmission substations in the first half of 2024.
These substations, with a combined conversion capacity of 1,200 megavolt-amperes (MVA), represent a total investment of AED1.36 billion ($370 million).
This initiative reinforces Dewa’s commitment to meeting the rising electricity demand driven by Dubai’s rapid development and urbanization.
Enhanced Efficiency and Capacity
The projects also involved the installation of 89 kilometers of underground cables, further enhancing the efficiency and capacity of Dubai’s 132 kV transmission network.
The new substations are strategically located in key areas, including Al Thanya 3, Al Barsha South 4, Wadi Al Shabak, Nadd Hessa, International City Phase 2, Wadi Al Safa 5, and Umm Suqeim 3.
Digital Transformation and Safety Focus
Over 8 million safe working hours, utilizing the latest global digital technologies for transmission substations, were dedicated to completing these projects.
This aligns with Dewa’s ongoing efforts to incorporate digital transformation across its services and operations, ensuring innovative and high-quality services with exceptional availability, reliability, efficiency, and safety.
Wellbeing and Advanced Technologies
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dewa, emphasized the organization’s dedication to achieving the goals of the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031 and Dubai Social Agenda 33.
“We are continuously striving to provide the best living experience and residential services for everyone,” he stated. Al Tayer also highlighted Dewa’s focus on utilizing cutting-edge technologies from the Fourth Industrial Revolution, smart technologies, and innovative practices to bolster the reliability and availability of Dubai’s energy network.
Unmatched Performance and Future Outlook
“Since 2018, we have consistently achieved 100% reliability and availability in Dubai’s energy transmission system, ranking among the top utilities worldwide,” Al Tayer added. With over AED5 billion invested in ongoing electricity transmission network projects, Dewa reported a total of 382 transmission substations across Dubai as of June 2024.
Upcoming Projects and Tenders
Hussain Lootah, Executive Vice President of Transmission Power at Dewa, revealed that 31 units of 132 kV transmission substations are currently under construction. Additionally, Dewa is evaluating financial proposals for six new 132 kV substations. Lootah outlined ambitious plans for the next three years, including tenders for over 50 new 132 kV transmission substations and the extension of 350 kilometers of underground transmission cables.