DEWA Boosts Efficiency with 8 New 132 kV Substations

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has enhanced Dubai’s electricity transmission grid by commissioning eight new 132 kV transmission substations in the first half of 2024. This initiative, with a conversion capacity of 1,200 megavolt-amperes (MVA) and a cost of AED 1.36 billion, supports DEWA’s efforts to keep pace with Dubai’s growing development and urban expansion. The projects included the installation of 89 kilometers of ground cable to improve the 132 kV transmission network’s efficiency and meet the increasing demand for electricity across the Emirate.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, noted that some substations serve residential neighborhoods for Emirati citizens, aligning with the integrated housing plan directed by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This plan, launched by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, aims to enhance the quality of life in all residential areas for Emiratis and strengthen social wellbeing.

DEWA is committed to achieving the goals of the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031 and Dubai Social Agenda 33. By employing the latest disruptive technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, smart technologies, and innovative practices, DEWA has maintained 100% reliability and availability of the energy transmission system since 2018, achieving top performance among utilities worldwide. Currently, DEWA’s electricity transmission network projects under construction have a total cost exceeding AED 5 billion.

The new transmission substations were commissioned in areas including Al Thanya 3, Al Barsha South 4, Wadi Al Shabak, Nadd Hessa, International City Phase 2, Wadi Al Safa 5, and Umm Suqeim 3. These projects required over 8 million safe working hours using the latest global digital technologies, supporting DEWA’s digital transformation efforts and commitment to providing innovative, high-quality services.

By the end of June 2024, the total number of transmission substations in Dubai reached 382, including 27 400 kV substations and 355 132 kV substations. Currently, there are 31 132 kV transmission substations under construction, with financial proposals under review for six new 132 kV substations. Over the next three years, DEWA plans to issue tenders for more than 50 new 132 kV transmission substations and extend 350 kilometers of ground transmission cables, according to Hussain Lootah, Executive Vice President of Transmission Power at DEWA.

DEWA has also awarded new contracts for ten 132 kV substations across various areas in Dubai, including Al Aweer 1, Umm Nahad 4, Al Manara, Umm Suqeim 2, Al Quoz Industrial 3, Hatta, Al Barsha South 3, Al Barsha 2, Wadi Al Safa 4, and Zabeel 2. These projects have a total cost of AED 1 billion. Additionally, DEWA has awarded projects to extend 132 kV ground cables, connecting the new transmission substations to the main electricity grid, with a total length of 25 kilometers and a cost of up to AED 176 million.

DEWA’s strategic initiatives and substantial investments are geared towards supporting Dubai’s rapid development and providing high-quality, reliable energy services to its residents.