By year-end, Hatta’s mountains will energize homes and businesses as Dubai debuts the Middle East’s inaugural hydroelectric plant. This venture can produce 250 megawatts of clean energy, with excess power integrated into the city’s grid.
Revealed at WETEX at the World Trade Centre, the project underscores the emirate’s commitment to diversifying energy sources and leading technological innovation rarely seen in the area.
Dr. Yousef Al Akraf, head of the sales, logistics, and sponsorships Committee for WETEX, stated that the hydroelectric station is a landmark in the UAE’s sustainability efforts. “Hatta hydro power is the region’s first hydroelectric project,” he noted. “It involves a two-tier dam system in the mountains, operational year-round.”
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Plant Operation
The project harnesses water storage and renewable solar energy. During the day, solar power operates pumps to move water from a lower to an upper reservoir. When needed, the stored water descends through a tunnel, driving turbines to produce electricity.
“This setup ensures clean, reliable energy for Hatta,” said Dr. Al Akraf. “Any surplus capacity will feed into Dubai’s grid.”
The plant’s 250-megawatt capacity suffices for Hatta’s residents and contributes extra power to the emirate, offering a solution that combines storage, stability, and sustainability.
In addition to the hydroelectric station, Dewa (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) has introduced innovative building projects to achieve net-zero emissions. An example is the Al Sheraa building (future Dewa HQ), equipped with rooftop solar panels to generate more power than it uses.
“The Al Sheraa building will meet its electricity needs, with any surplus returned to the grid,” stated Dr. Al Akraf.
Regional Innovation
While hydropower is prevalent in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, the Middle East’s dry landscape previously deemed such projects impractical.
Dubai has pioneered a model that could inspire regional developments by utilizing Hatta’s mountains and integrating solar power.
“The Hatta project demonstrates how we can harness mountains, reservoirs, and solar energy to establish a sustainable power source,” said Dr. Al Akraf.
