Dubai’s electricity consumption grew by 5.4 percent in 2024, reaching 59,594 Gigawatt-hours (GWh), up from 56,516 GWh in 2023, according to the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). Peak demand also rose by 3.4 percent to 10.76 GW.
DEWA reported that its total power generation capacity now stands at 17.179 GW. Renewable energy sources contribute 20 percent of this capacity. These figures reflect Dubai’s efforts to meet the targets of the Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, which aim for a complete transition to renewable energy by 2050.
According to Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, the expansion of power generation and distribution networks is continuing as Dubai’s population grows and economic activities increase. Investments in infrastructure are focused on maintaining a reliable energy supply while advancing the transition toward cleaner energy.
Dubai’s energy plans include well-known projects such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. Alongside this large-scale development, smaller renewable energy projects are also being implemented across the emirate.
Among these projects is the installation of solar-powered desalination units in remote coastal areas, reducing dependence on traditional electricity sources for water production. Some public schools have begun installing photovoltaic panels to generate their own electricity. Floating solar panels are also being tested on water reservoirs to generate energy while limiting evaporation losses.
Dubai is exploring hybrid energy solutions, including the use of combined solar and wind systems to provide electricity to off-grid desert locations. In addition, biogas generation from organic waste is being introduced at small-scale waste treatment facilities. Solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are also being deployed to support the increasing number of electric cars in the city.
