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Abu Dhabi launches policy to boost energy and water efficiency in government operations

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Energy unveils a new policy to cut electricity and water use by 2030, driving sustainability and supporting the UAE’s Net Zero goals.

Abu Dhabi launches policy to boost energy and water efficiency in government operations
[Source photo: Krishna Prasad/Fast Company Middle East]

In a move to accelerate sustainable resource management, the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy has introduced the Efficient Appliances Procurement Policy for Government Entities, a key initiative under the updated Abu Dhabi Energy and Water Efficiency Strategy 2030.

The policy aims to cut electricity consumption by 22 percent, equivalent to 19 terawatt-hours, and reduce water use by 32 percent, or 465 million cubic meters, by 2030 compared to 2013 levels.

Designed to ensure that government entities procure only high-efficiency appliances, the initiative embeds sustainability into public procurement, driving both environmental and economic gains. It is projected to deliver 8.2 gigawatt-hours of annual electricity savings and 120,000 cubic meters of water savings by 2030.

Ahmed Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Under-Secretary of the Department of Energy, said the policy reinforces Abu Dhabi’s commitment to energy and water efficiency. “By ensuring that applicable appliances procured by government entities meet high-efficiency standards, we are embedding sustainability into the fabric of government operations and driving long-term environmental and economic value for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi,” he said.

Ahmed Al Falasi, Executive Director of the Energy Efficiency Sector at the Department of Energy, added that the initiative demonstrates how policy and procurement can work together to achieve measurable environmental outcomes. “It empowers suppliers and manufacturers to innovate and deliver the most efficient technologies, positioning Abu Dhabi as a regional leader in sustainable procurement,” he said.

The new framework is expected to reduce operational costs across government entities, improve building efficiency, and signal clear market demand for advanced technologies.

Aligned with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 initiative and the Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy, the policy strengthens the Emirate’s role as a global frontrunner in sustainable energy management and efficient resource use.

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