Dubai has rightly earned the honour to be called a ‘futuristic city’. Transportation, properties and monuments – Dubai continues to remain ahead of the curve. With an eye on the future, the government takes a keen interest in investing in things that will do better for the city. One of the living examples of this vision is DEWA’s Shams Dubai project.
The project promotes the use of solar energy in the UAE – a renewable and environment-friendly energy source. It will greatly contribute to making Dubai a sustainable and smart city. Let’s delve into the details to learn all about Shams Dubai and see how it will make a difference in the metropolitan city.
DEWA’s Shams Dubai
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) oversees water and electricity distribution in the city. Launched in 2015, Shams Dubai is a project by DEWA. In addition to the many DEWA services, the Shams Dubai project is a part of the Distributed Renewable Resources Generation programme.
The smart energy project contributes to the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the Ruler of Dubai’s vision to make Dubai the smartest city in the world.
Shams Dubai by DEWA encourages building owners and households to use photovoltaic (PV) panels on their properties. The PV panels generate electricity and connect directly to DEWA’s grid. The energy produced is used by the property. Additionally, the surplus electricity goes to DEWA’s network.
Advantages of DEWA’s Shams Dubai
DEWA Shams Dubai is beneficial for both residents and the government. All in all, the joint efforts can do great for the city and help people to get a solar-powered home in Dubai. Now, let’s take a look at some of the major benefits of the Dewa Shams program.
REDUCED DEWA BILLS
The first and foremost advantage of the smart programme for consumers is reduced bills. With the usage of solar energy, residents can significantly reduce DEWA bills and save money upfront.
ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLY ENERGY SOURCE
Solar power is a renewable energy source. Additionally, the production of solar energy does not require the burning of fossil fuels which can be hazardous to the environment. Residents opting for solar energy can greatly contribute to the environment through this initiative.
ADDITIONAL SUPPLY IN THE GRID
With DEWA’s Shams Dubai program, additional electricity is sent to DEWA’s national grid. This means more electricity in the grid. Moreover, property owners can also bear the fruits as the additional energy transferred to DEWA’s grid is adjusted in future bills.
INCREASED PROPERTY VALUE
Cutting energy costs is one of the most effective ways to increase property value – for both rentals and sales. Potential buyers usually consider the energy-efficiency element when buying a property.
Homeowners with PV panels on their properties can increase their chances of getting a good resale value. Moreover, landlords can also get better rents for an energy-efficient property.
DEWA Shams Dubai Connection Process for Residents and Customers
The connection process for Shams DEWA consists of four stages:
- First Stage – No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- Second Stage – Design Approval
- Third Stage – Inspection and Connection
- Fourth Stage– Generation
Now, let’s go through a step-by-step guide to the entire connection process.
STEP 1 – ENGAGING WITH CONSULTANTS OR CONTRACTORS
Interested customers can reach out to any of the enrolled contractors or consultants. The authorised professionals review the property and advise on PV installation.
STEP 2 – NON APPLICATION
A non-objection certificate in real estate is a legal tool used in several property processes. In the second step, the contractor or consultant submits the Solar NOC(2) building application on the DEWA application page.
STEP 3 – APPROVAL OF DESIGN APPLICATION
After obtaining the NOC, the consultant or contractor submits the required documents and application for design approval on the application page.
STEP 4 – Technical Design Approval Download
Once getting design approval, the concerned contractor or consultants receives an estimate of the relevant connection fee.
STEP 5 – NOTIFY DEWA
The concerned consultant or contractor notifies DEWA that fieldwork is complete and the materials are ready for inspection and connection.
STEP 6 – INSPECTION OF SITE AND CONNECTION
The involved contractor or consultant arranges a site inspection after coordinating with DEWA and the customer. The process involves the signing of the connection agreement, metre installation and connecting the solar system to DEWA’s grid.
STEP 7 – SOLAR ENERGY GENERATION
Once all the aforementioned steps are completed, customers can start generating electricity through their solar panels. Customers can use the electricity for their property. Additionally, the surplus energy goes to DEWA’s grid. DEWA adjusts the customer bills accordingly.
Customers can download the list of enrolled contractors and consultants through the DEWA website.
DEWA Shams Dubai Calculator
In addition to providing a clear roadmap for installing solar panels, DEWA has a web application called Shams Calculator. With the application, customers can get an estimate on electricity production and savings on bills.
Customers using DEWA billing services can compare the rates to see how much they can save. The Shams Calculator estimates are based on the following factors:
- Geographic location
- Local objects in proximity casting a shadow on panels
- Solar panel characteristics such as angle and orientation
Customers can visit the solar calculator page on DEWA’s website to get an estimate for their buildings.
DEWA’s Shams Dubai for Consultants & Contractors
Consultants and contractors who want to be a part of the smart programme can apply through the DEWA official website. Additionally, interested individuals can check out the DEWA Shams-approved contractors, eligibility, equipment standards and safety guidelines on the website.
This was everything about DEWA’s Shams Dubai program. Renewable resources are perhaps the most environmentally-friendly sources. The DEWA Shams program serves as a great initiative to make Dubai the ‘smartest city in the world’.
The development of smart cities in Dubai reflects the city’s path towards greater goals. Customers can apply for the Shams Dubai program and avail the many benefits that follow.
Moreover, check out these net-zero energy buildings in the UAE to see other smart projects in the Emirates.
Looking for accommodation in the Emirate? Check out these properties for sale in Dubai and get a chance to live in one of the most developed cities in the world.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s property blog for information about energy-efficient projects in the UAE and more.
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