Simone Liedtke
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Articles by Simone Liedtke
Alkhorayef wins $44m Saudi water maintenance contracts from NWC, SIO
Saudi-based Alkhorayef Water and Power Technologies Company has secured contracts worth SAR167m ($44m) from the National Water Company (NWC) and the Saudi Irrigation Organisation (SIO). The contracts cover operation and maintenance services for water and wastewater infrastructure facilities across Al Khobar and the Riyadh region.
Huawei launches FusionSolar 9.0 to tackle regional grid stability
The summit explored the technologies shaping the next generation of solar power and the evolving requirements of grids increasingly powered by renewable energy. Alex Xing, President of Huawei Digital Power Middle East & Central Asia, opened the event by noting that the region’s renewable energy sector is entering a new phase. He said the industry’s focus is shifting beyond capacity expansion towards smarter, more resilient power systems capable of maintaining grid stability.
Nama sets August 26 deadline for 4GW Oman solar advisory bids
Nama Power and Water Procurement Company (PWP) has set an August 26 deadline for consultancy firms to submit bids for technical advisory services linked to four utility-scale solar independent power producer (IPP) projects in Oman. The company has invited qualified consultancy firms to bid for a contract covering the development and procurement of the planned solar projects.
IRENA says renewable power reached 31.7% of global generation
The data comes as electrification moves higher on the global climate agenda. Drawing on IRENA’s roadmap, the incoming COP31 Presidency of Türkiye has announced a global electrification target of 35% of final energy demand by 2035 as part of its Action Agenda. IRENA said achieving this ambition would require renewables to increase their share of global electricity generation from 31.7% in 2024 to 78% by 2035, around 2.5 times today’s level.
Siemens Energy to become Omterra in major brand reset
Siemens Energy has begun preparations to launch an independent brand, with the company set to transition to the name Omterra following its 2020 spin-off from Siemens AG. The move follows the company’s development as a standalone business and reflects the time-limited licence agreement governing its use of the Siemens Energy brand. Under the planned rebrand, Siemens Energy and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy will be brought together under a single name and brand umbrella: Omterra.
DEWA targets 100% clean desalination after World Water Council talks
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) discussed the future of water governance with the World Water Council during a meeting in Dubai, where it outlined its target to produce 100% of the emirate’s desalinated water using clean energy and waste heat by 2030. The meeting brought together Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DEWA, and Loïc Fauchon, President of the World Water Council.
COVER STORY | DEWA builds tomorrow’s utility model through innovation and global growth
“A key strength lies in transforming the leadership’s aspirations into projects that deliver at scale. We don’t just plan for the future; we build it,” Al Tayer says. He adds that aligned with Dubai’s long-term strategies, DEWA’s role now extends beyond electricity and water to building an integrated ecosystem for growth, energy security and climate ambitions.
UAE utilities spotlight talent on World Youth Skills Day
Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) and Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) both highlighted the importance of equipping young people with the skills needed to contribute to sustainable development, innovation and the UAE’s long-term economic diversification. Empower CEO Ahmad Bin Shafar HE Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, said young people would play a decisive role in shaping the future of critical sectors including energy, sustainability and advanced technologies.
Masdar reaches $6.1bn close for 24/7 clean energy project
Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) has achieved financial close for its $6.1bn round-the-clock renewable energy project in Abu Dhabi. The project is being developed with Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) and is described by Masdar as the world’s first gigascale 24/7 renewable energy project. It will combine a 5.2GW solar photovoltaic plant with a 19GWh battery energy storage system.
BEEAH and EtihadWE to expand Sharjah wastewater treatment capacity
The partnership will also develop associated network infrastructure required to support the planned expansion. The framework includes the establishment of two dedicated entities. A project company will be responsible for developing and delivering the expansion projects and will be jointly owned by BEEAH and EtihadWE’s development and investment arm, with each holding a 50% stake. A separate operations and maintenance company will manage long-term asset operations and service continuity.
Sharjah launches campaign to cut single-use product waste
Sharjah’s Department of Municipal Affairs has launched a campaign encouraging residents to replace single-use products with environmentally friendly alternatives. The ‘Sharjah Deserves the Best’ campaign will run until December 31, 2026, as part of the emirate’s wider efforts to promote sustainable living and reduce waste from disposable products. The initiative aims to inspire individuals, families and businesses to make greener choices in their daily lives.
Utilities Middle East launches Women in Utilities 2026
Utilities Middle East has opened nominations for its inaugural Women in Utilities 2026 list, which will recognise the professionals driving progress across the Middle East’s rapidly evolving utilities sector. The list will highlight women working across power, water, waste, sustainability, renewable energy, infrastructure and the wider energy transition.
Mitsubishi Power supports Saudi fuel switch at 5.8GW plants
Mitsubishi Power is the power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI). As the original equipment manufacturer responsible for the design and manufacture of the existing boilers, Mitsubishi Power will support Saudi Arabia’s policy to shift fuel sources in power generation and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The Jeddah South and Shuqaiq plants are both located on Saudi Arabia’s west coast.
SPPC opens qualification for third Saudi gas IPP round
The company is the principal buyer of electricity in the Kingdom. The qualification process follows the successful implementation of SPPC’s earlier conventional IPP procurement rounds. Round 1 included the Taiba 1, Taiba 2, Qassim 1 and Qassim 2 Independent Power Projects. Round 2 included the Rumah 1, Rumah 2, Nairyah 1 and Nairyah 2 Independent Power Projects.
DEWA launches global subsidiary to export Dubai’s utility expertise
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has established DEWA International, a wholly owned independent subsidiary created to develop conventional and clean energy projects worldwide. The company will also export Dubai’s successful energy and water infrastructure model to international markets.
RTA upgrades cooling systems across 62 Dubai Metro trains
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed an upgrade of air-conditioning systems across 62 Dubai Metro trains to improve passenger comfort during the summer. The project was carried out in collaboration with Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram operator Keolis MHI. It involved comprehensive maintenance of the trains’ ventilation and air-conditioning systems.
DEWA turns Dubai-It ambition into record-breaking utility performance
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, said the initiative reflected Dubai’s determination to continually raise its ambitions. “The Dubai-It initiative is a renewed testament to Dubai’s limitless ambition,” Al Tayer said.
Masdar awards BYD 11.28GWh Abu Dhabi battery storage contract
Masdar has awarded BYD a contract to supply 11.28GWh of battery storage capacity for its round-the-clock renewable energy project in Abu Dhabi. According to GlobalData, the development, being delivered by Masdar and Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC), combines a 5.2GW solar photovoltaic plant with a 19GWh battery energy storage system.
Positive Zero secures $375m to accelerate Gulf energy transition
Positive Zero has secured a long-term financing facility of up to $375m to support the expansion of decentralised energy infrastructure across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The non-recourse facility will fund distributed solar generation, energy efficiency and clean mobility projects in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman and Qatar.
Empower secures 37,000RT Binghatti district cooling agreement in Meydan
Empower said the agreement reflected growing developer confidence in district cooling as a reliable and sustainable solution for large-scale developments. District cooling systems can reduce energy consumption for space cooling, lower carbon emissions and improve resource efficiency. They can also support long-term operational savings and strengthen the economic viability of developments while aligning with Dubai’s wider sustainability objectives.
TRENDING READS | Acwa bids, EGA restarts and Ducab appoints new CEO
Three very different developments are drawing attention across the region’s water, industrial and energy infrastructure sectors, each carrying implications for capacity, continuity and future growth. Acwa has emerged as the sole bidder for Bahrain’s Hidd Independent Water Project, a seawater reverse osmosis desalination facility that will be developed on a build-own-operate basis.
Siemens powers UAE’s first unified national grid monitoring centre
The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has inaugurated the Emirates Monitoring Center, the UAE’s first national facility providing real-time oversight of the country’s integrated power network. The centre links all four electricity utilities: Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC), Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA), and Etihad Water and Electricity.
SGE unveils £35bn plan for 14 UK mini-reactors
Polish billionaire Michał Sołowow’s SGE has unveiled plans to invest an estimated £35bn in 14 small modular reactors across three sites in the UK. The Warsaw-based developer aims to install GE Vernova Hitachi BWRX-300 reactors, with first power targeted for 2034. Together, the reactors would provide 4.2GW of generation capacity, enough to power approximately eight million homes or meet around 11% of UK electricity demand. The proposed fleet would operate for at least 60 years.
Dubai approves 2025 emissions results and explores SAF production
The council’s 95th meeting was chaired virtually by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, in the presence of Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the council. Dubai’s 2025 emissions results showed a continued reduction in the emirate’s carbon footprint.
Europhon delivers seamless acoustics for DEWA’s sustainable Al Shera’a headquarters
The installation supports growing demand across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for healthier, people-focused workplaces where acoustic comfort is considered alongside air quality, daylight and thermal performance. The UAE’s wellness economy is valued at approximately $40.8bn, while 90% of residents say they prioritise healthy living and working environments.
Naseej signs 14 agreements to expand UAE textile circularity
Naseej, the UAE’s National Initiative for Textile Circularity, has signed 14 strategic agreements with leading organisations to expand efforts to reduce textile waste and support a circular economy. The agreements were signed at the Emirates Foundation headquarters in Abu Dhabi in the presence of Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism.
Saudi Arabia advances global e-waste rules across three countries
Saudi Arabia has announced the successful implementation of a global electronic waste regulatory initiative developed with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The project supported the creation of national e-waste frameworks in Paraguay, Rwanda and Zambia. The announcement was made on the sidelines of the World Summit on the Information Society in Geneva, which brought together representatives from more than 190 countries.
Acwa recommends SAR352.6m dividend and launches five-year programme
Saudi-listed Acwa has recommended the distribution of approximately SAR352.6m in cash dividends to shareholders for the financial year ended December 31, 2025. The proposed distribution represents SAR0.46 per share, equivalent to 4.6% of the nominal value of each share. The recommendation reflects Acwa’s commitment to delivering sustainable shareholder value while maintaining a disciplined approach to capital allocation.
DEWA urges summer travellers to safeguard home energy use
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has urged residential customers to take several pre-travel measures to improve electricity and water efficiency, reduce waste and identify potential issues before they escalate. The guidance forms part of DEWA’s ‘Enjoy Sustainable Vibes This Summer’ awareness campaign. Customers can monitor their electricity and water consumption remotely through DEWA’s digital services, allowing them to identify unusual changes while away and take appropriate action.
Egypt expands wastewater treatment capacity to 19 million cubic metres
Egypt has significantly expanded its wastewater treatment infrastructure over the past decade, increasing the number of plants from 385 before 2014 to around 621 by June 2026. According to the Ministry of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities, the expansion included the construction of 236 new wastewater treatment plants. These include 47 tertiary treatment facilities, helping raise Egypt’s total wastewater treatment capacity to approximately 19 million cubic metres per day.
UAE Unicorn Esyasoft joins Tesla on 15GWh global storage push
The initiative will focus on the UK, Western Europe, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and India, creating what the companies described as one of the largest battery storage programmes announced globally. The solutions are expected to be introduced under the Esyasoft Energy Storage powered by Tesla banner and delivered jointly by teams from both companies.
Dubai Holding and Etihad ESCO launch energy efficiency partnership
Dubai Holding Community Management and Al Etihad Energy Services (Etihad ESCO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives across communities managed by Dubai Holding Community Management. The partnership combines Dubai Holding Community Management’s sustainability-led approach with Etihad ESCO’s technical expertise in energy management.
Empower wins two IDEA gold awards in Ottawa
Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) has won two Gold Awards at the International District Energy Association (IDEA) Conference and Exhibition 2026 in Ottawa, Canada. The world’s largest district cooling services provider secured the awards in the categories of Total Number of Buildings Committed and Total Building Area Committed for district cooling services outside North America.
ACCIONA digitises desalination plants with real-time PMS platform
ACCIONA is advancing the digitalisation of its desalination plants through the implementation of a Plant Management System (PMS) commercialised by Schneider Electric and based on AVEVA PI System technology. The platform centralises plant data and converts it into real-time performance insights, combining digital technology with ACCIONA’s operational expertise to improve efficiency and decision-making across its water assets.
Emerging Africa & Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF) backs Egyptr project
EAAIF is a Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) company managed by Ninety One. The loan will primarily support the Minya project, which combines 1GW of solar capacity with a 660MWh battery energy storage system. The development is intended to deliver large-scale renewable power while strengthening the stability of Egypt’s national electricity grid. It will also provide more affordable and reliable electricity for businesses and communities.
Samsung E&A secures $790m Middle East water project
Samsung E&A has secured a Middle East water treatment project valued at 380bn won, or $790m, further strengthening its position in the region’s water infrastructure sector. The contract includes $247m awarded to Samsung E&A’s headquarters and approximately $543m allocated to its overseas subsidiary. In addition to the engineering, procurement and construction scope, the company has secured an operations and maintenance contract supporting the facility’s long-term operation.
Tadweer awards Abu Dhabi waste recovery facility contract to Urbaser
Tadweer Group has awarded a contract to Urbaser for the development of Abu Dhabi’s first greenfield Material Recovery Facility. The project will have an annual processing capacity of 400,000 tonnes, comprising 200,000 tonnes of municipal solid waste and 200,000 tonnes of commercial and industrial waste. Scheduled to become operational in 2028, the facility will support Tadweer Group’s target of diverting 80% of Abu Dhabi’s waste away from landfill by 2031.
Acwa wins exclusive Saudi clean energy export mandate
It also supports the Kingdom’s efforts to build a diversified, lower-carbon economy under Saudi Vision 2030. Under the approval, Acwa has also been assigned to develop projects for the production, transmission and export of electricity generated from renewable energy sources. The electricity will be supplied to European and Arab markets, supporting regional energy security and enabling the export of competitively priced clean power from Saudi Arabia.
SEWA installs 750,000 water-saving devices across Sharjah
The Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) is continuing its water conservation programme by installing more than 750,000 water-saving devices across over 45,000 homes in the emirate’s cities and regions. The first phase is focused on Al Rahmaniya district, where SEWA is targeting 4,015 homes. Installation work in the area is expected to be completed by the end of July.
DEWA targets August award for water pipeline consultancy
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is expected to award a consultancy contract covering the design and construction supervision of water transmission pipelines and associated works during the third quarter of 2026. The tender, titled “Consultancy services for the design and construction supervision, and design of water transmission pipelines associated works”, was issued on 24 December 2025. Bids were submitted on 3 February 2026. “Bid evaluation is currently underway.
Acwa sole bidder for Bahrain’s Hidd water project
Bahrain’s Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) has announced that Acwa has emerged as the sole bidder for the Hidd Independent Water Project. The seawater reverse osmosis desalination plant will be developed on a build-own-operate basis. The project will have a guaranteed net contracted water capacity of 11,364 cubic metres per hour. EWA said the facility would make a significant contribution to Bahrain’s potable water supply while supporting growing residential, commercial and industrial demand.
EGA restarts Al Taweelah cells after March damage
EGA said several early milestones in the restart programme had been reached ahead of schedule, although hot metal production could take up to one year to return to pre-incident levels. The company has established a dedicated team to oversee the safe and efficient restoration of the Al Taweelah facilities. Repairs to damaged infrastructure have progressed rapidly, with basic utilities restored across the site.
Emarat launches Dubai Flame Tree planting initiative
Emarat, in collaboration with Dubai Municipality, has launched a Flame Tree planting initiative at Emarat Al Buhaira Service Station, with planting set to extend to other Emarat service stations across Dubai. Dubai’s Flame Trees (Gulmohar or Delonix regia) transform the city’s streets into vibrant canvases of fiery orange and scarlet every summer.
Ducab appoints Matteo Bavaresco as Group CEO
Ducab has appointed Matteo Bavaresco as its new Group CEO with immediate effect as the UAE-based energy solutions provider looks to accelerate its regional and international expansion. Matteo Bavaresco Bavaresco succeeds Gert Hoefman, who served as Interim Group CEO over the past year. Hoefman will continue supporting Ducab’s strategic direction as a member of the company’s Board of Directors.
Egypt adds 2.2GW renewables as summer demand surges
Egypt plans to connect 2.2GW of renewable energy capacity and 1.3GWh of battery energy storage systems to the national electricity grid during 2026. Mahmoud Esmat, Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, announced the plans during a meeting with Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources. The ministers reviewed preparations for an anticipated increase in electricity demand during the summer, according to a joint statement issued by their ministries.
EDF signs three landmark Oman clean energy agreements
The first agreement covers the proposed 2GW Jabal Abyad pumped hydro energy storage project, which would be the largest development of its kind in the Middle East. The project will be developed near the Wadi Dayqah Dam through a partnership involving EDF Power Solutions, Oman National Engineering and Investment Company (ONEIC), TAKHZEEN Oman and Green Universe Enterprise, alongside Oman’s Authority for Public Services Regulation.
Acwa signs $700m Mauritania power plant agreements
Acwa’s project company, Ndiago Power Company, has signed two agreements covering the development of the 230MW N’Diago Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant in Mauritania. The agreements were signed with the Government of Mauritania and Société Mauritanienne d’Électricité (SOMELEC), the country’s state-owned electricity company. Both agreements have a 25-year term, according to a filing on the Saudi Exchange.
Saudi Arabia advances 12GWh battery storage programme
The Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC), acting as Principal Buyer under the supervision of the Ministry of Energy, has prequalified 27 developers for the second group of its Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) programme. According to the news report, the qualified companies include global utility groups EDF, Korea Electric Power Corporation (Kepco) and Marubeni, alongside regional energy companies Masdar and Acwa.
EtihadWE secures ISO certification for utility asset management
Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) has achieved ISO 55001:2024 certification for its Asset Management System, marking a milestone in its commitment to operational excellence, efficiency, infrastructure reliability and long-term value creation. The certification covers EtihadWE’s power and water transmission and distribution assets across their full lifecycle.
DEWA sustainability score reaches 92.33% in 2025
The Sustainability Culture Index measures employee attitudes towards sustainability and how these principles are applied in their daily lives. It also identifies factors that support or hinder the achievement of sustainable outcomes across an organisation. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, commended the high level of sustainability awareness demonstrated by employees and their commitment to embedding these principles throughout the workplace.
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