In 2010, the Supreme Council of Energy implemented the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, by developing and launching the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 to define the strategic direction of the Emirate of Dubai towards ensuring sustainable energy and improved efficiency in demand and diversification of the energy mix by 2030.

In order to achieve these strategic goals and strengthen Dubai’s position as a global centre for clean and renewable energy, sustainability and the environment, the Supreme Council of Energy launched the Emirates Energy Award to honour the work and practices of companies, organisations and individuals working in the energy sector, creating a stimulating environment and integrated system that helps foster a culture of excellence and sustainability in this vital sector.

The Emirates Energy Award, which is organised once every two years, supports the UAE Vision 2021, and the long-term national Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative, launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to sustainably develop the UAE.

The award promotes the sustainable use of clean and renewable energy sources and reduces dependence on traditional energy sources to reduce environmental pollution, encouraging businesses and people to take up sustainable development, and increasing awareness and promoting the conservation and preservation of energy resources and environmental protection. The award is also instrumental in supporting the economic and environmental development plans adopted by the UAE.

“We aim to highlight best practices in the area of energy efficiency and renewable energy. The award is one of the most significant initiatives undertaken by the Council to achieve sustainable development in Dubai and raise awareness among community members about the best use of energy and its importance in driving growth. The award highlights the best experiences and practices that have successfully conserved energy. The award recognises local and global efforts in all areas of energy and serves as a catalyst for scientific innovation and creative ideas,” said Al Tayer.

“Our leadership at Dubai Government has comprehensive plans and integrated strategies for sustainable solutions in the field of energy. In line with the efforts of Dubai Government and the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Supreme Council of Energy has unveiled the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 to reduce energy consumption by 30% by 2030, which emphasises the leadership’s farsighted initiatives to face future challenges in the energy sector,” added Al Tayer.

Apart from promoting sustainable energy as the energy of the future, EEA also provides a strong platform for international investment. “Renewable energy represents the cornerstone of the UAEs’ strategy to build new industries and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Dubai Government aims to promote the Emirate as a global hub for sustainable business and green technology. The Executive Committee of the Award examines projects on clean and renewable energy from different and multiple points of view to reach the best solutions. We seek to highlight best practices that have been successful in conserving energy and conservation, particularly in the face of climate change. This calls for concerted efforts to promote best practice in energy conservation not only in the UAE but also across the world,” said Al Tayer.

EEA was launched to promote best practices in energy management sources, according to the following values:

Creativity and Innovation: These relate to regulations and procedures affecting energy, opportunities and techniques that can be developed and used by others.

Energy efficiency and reduction of carbon footprint: The rationalisation of energy use through the adoption of best practices for recycling, the conservation of resources and reduction of carbon emissions in new projects.

Promote the use of renewable energy compared to other resources: The use of renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on non-renewable energy resources.

The economic and social impact of behavioural, environmental, and energy security: The possibility of significant positive benefits such as raising the standard of living, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting sustainable energy, as well as building knowledge and social responsibility.

The award honours the efforts of organisations and individuals in the areas of management and rationalisation of energy, and in promoting education and research. A global platform, the award brings winners together to celebrate their achievements, highlight their efforts and honour them for their remarkable successes in adopting best practices for energy management and conservation.

The Award Committee comprises experts in the management and assessment of international awards. They sort and review applicants and requests, and ensure the completion of all requirements for participation in the award. The final winners are selected by the Technical Committee, for approval by the Executive Committee.

The Supreme Council of Energy believes in the centrality and importance of honouring best practices in the field of energy and promoting scientific research and innovation. It will organise a ceremony in October to honour the winners.

The Awards includes the following categories: Gold, Silver & Bronze awards for Large and Small Energy Projects for Efficiency; Gold, Silver & Bronze awards for energy efficiency in the public sector; Gold, Silver & Bronze awards in education and capacity-building; Gold, Silver & Bronze awards in scientific research; Gold, Silver & Bronze awards for youth innovation; and a special award of Excellence.

The award ceremony coincides with World Energy Day celebrations, announced by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and endorsed by representatives of 54 countries around the world as well as the representatives from the United Nations, the Arab League and the African Union on 22 October 2012. World Energy Day underlines the importance of energy and its role in our lives and its positive impact in the areas of economic and social development and welfare of the people.

Organisations and individuals can participate in the Emirates Energy Award on its the website www.emiratesenergyaward.com