Green energy to remain hallmark of smart cities

dubai — Sustainable energy production methods such as solar power will be the hallmarks of the smart cities of the future, experts at the Global Infrastructure Congress 2018 said.

Speaking in a panel session, Ali Al Jassim, CEO of Etihad Esco, noted that there needs to be more of a focus on clean energy generation and energy efficiency, especially in light of the technology that is available today. “When we talk about energy saving, we talk about sustainability that is incorporated as practices within a building design. But why not talk about sustainable infrastructure and construction itself? Today, we have solar panels that can be fitted on the ground, on roofs, on walls, and even solar glass. Smart technology and connected devices will make it easier to combine all this into a system that allows for greater energy production on the site itself.”

Held under the patronage of Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Infrastructure Development, UAE, the inaugural edition of the event is organised in partnership with the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, and the Federal Transport Authority. The event will highlight the latest innovations and projects that are changing the future of infrastructure development in the region.

“Infrastructure projects under the supervision of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development as the executive arm of the Federal Government have become a global example, as a result of the adoption of an innovative system and tools based on the concept of sustainable green buildings and renewable energy, which is one of the main goals to be achieved by 2021,” Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi said.