DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) inaugurated a competition during the Innovation Week 2016, held from 20th to 24th November, encouraging students to design, build and test remote-controlled solar cars. The final models will compete against each other in April 2017.
This initiative was taken to develop leadership skills in the participants, encouraging them to specialize in the field of research and development for technological progress. Besides, this competition was aimed to involve the youth in the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, given by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE.
As per this strategy, UAE plans to be the pioneer of the green economy, reducing the carbon footprint and shifting to alternative energy sources to power the society by 2050.The country aspires to build 75% clean energy sources. Solar cars are a part of this campaign.
Immense efforts encouraging building owners to install photovoltaic panels are already underway. DEWA has connected 222 solar systems to commercial, residential, and governmental buildings, generating a total of 6 megawatts. Besides this, contractors and consultancies are being trained to handle, install and manage the project effectively.
The world is witnessing the speedy transformation of UAE into a sustainable economy based on clean energy.