DEWA and ESA Collaborate on Space-Based Innovation to Revolutionize Energy and Water Utilities
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and the European Space Agency (ESA) have joined forces to explore the potential of space-based technologies in revolutionizing the energy and water utility sector. With a shared interest in developing innovative applications and services to enhance safety, affordability, and environmental sustainability, both organizations have signed a Memorandum of Intent to pursue collaborative activities in this domain.
DEWA, known for its utilization of the latest technologies in water production, transmission, distribution, and control of water networks, has achieved significant successes, earning itself a reputation as one of the world’s top utilities. The collaboration with ESA aims to leverage space assets and combine them with technology enablers such as the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G, data analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and unmanned transport systems, including aerial and maritime platforms.
By incorporating these cutting-edge technologies, DEWA and ESA seek to develop innovative space-based applications that will support various aspects of the energy and water utility sector. These applications will focus on enhancing safety, affordability, operational efficiency, resource deployment agility, and environmental sustainability.
As a tangible step towards this collaboration, ESA and DEWA are preparing to launch a joint Call for Proposals, inviting companies to submit their ideas for sustainable downstream space services that address DEWA’s water management priorities. These priorities include improving water infrastructure usage efficiency, enhancing water treatment processes, implementing preventative infrastructure maintenance measures, developing water policies, and bolstering water grid security.
Furthermore, another opportunity for collaboration lies in the Commercial Applications of Space-Enabled Robotics for Energy thematic call. This call specifically targets the physical structures and networks used for energy transport and storage. DEWA will have the opportunity to provide input on specific use cases and explore potential partnerships related to the selected activities. Developing sustainable applications in this realm will require the establishment of a broad ecosystem that encompasses terrestrial and satellite connectivity providers. This ecosystem will facilitate the delivery of innovative and sustainable services, ensuring long-term efficiency and competitiveness within the utilities sector.
DEWA’s participation in the ESA initiative, the Task Force for Innovation in Energy Through Space, further underscores its commitment to advancing sustainable and innovative services within the clean green energy ecosystem. Launched in October 2022, this Task Force includes prominent international members from various organizations dedicated to driving the growth of a sustainable green economy. Through this collaboration, DEWA aims to leverage space applications and technologies to contribute to the global transition towards clean and renewable energy sources.
In conclusion, the collaboration between DEWA and ESA holds immense potential for revolutionizing the energy and water utility sector through the application of space-based technologies. By harnessing the power of IoT, 5G, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and unmanned transport systems, innovative solutions can be developed to enhance safety, affordability, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Through their joint efforts, DEWA and ESA aim to drive the adoption of these solutions, propelling the utilities sector into a more sustainable and efficient future.
