Mosques to show the way on sustainability

Dh20m project in Abu Dhabi to help optimise cooling systems, save power

Mosques in Abu Dhabi are set to become more sustainable following the implementation of a Dh20 million project that will optimise cooling systems in order to reduce overall power consumption.

The Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC) signed an agreement with the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) to invest the funds in a bid to enhance the efficiency of air conditioning in 850 mosques, which represent 65 per cent of the mosques in Abu Dhabi city and Al Dhafra region.

Big emissions reduction

The mosques, which serve over half a million worshippers, will see a 20 per cent reduction in electricity consumption, saving 26 gigawatthours of electricity and about 4,600 tonnes of carbon emissions each year.

The initiative will contribute to Abu Dhabi’s Demand

Side Management (DSM) and Energy Rationalisation Strategy, which aims to reduce overall electricity consumption in the emirate by 22 per cent before 2030, and water consumption by 32 per cent.

The agreement was signed during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

“Aligned with Abu Dhabi’s sustainability goals and the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, our collaboration with Awqaf encompasses a comprehensive approach to use energy more efficiently in Abu Dhabi mosques. It is a testament to the potential that these types of projects can have in dramatically increasing energy efficiency and reducing overall carbon footprint,” said Saeed Al Suwaidi, ADDC managing director.

As part of the agreement, ADDC will provide smart, programmable thermostats that can be monitored and controlled remotely in order to maintain optimal temperatures while reducing energy load.