In an interview with Utilities Middle East at last week’s World Utilities Congress, Dr. Afif Saif Al Yafei, CEO, Abu Dhabi Transmission and Despatch Company (TRANSCO), highlights the company’s journey to drive sustainability within the UAE’s power and water sector through forward looking strategies that have, among other things, placed smart technologies at the core of all operations
Tell us about TRANSCO’s participation at last week’s World Utilities Congress
We are delighted to participate in the key discussions on energy transition and the rapid transformation of power and water value chains at the World Utilities Congress 2022, hosted by TAQA Group.
TRANSCO plays a major role in the UAE’s vision for the sector, transmitting clean energy and facilitating a more sustainable energy future. We plan, develop and deliver the critical infrastructure which enables energy transition through our power and water networks.
We are witnessing an increased move towards incorporating smart and digital technologies, integration of renewable energy and optimized management of large infrastructure.
Across this event’s exhibition, conferences and committees, we look forward to contributing our industry knowledge and technology assessments – as well as sharing experiences, research, and best practice with fellow industry professionals
The UAE Government has set an ambitious strategic goal – UAE Energy Strategy 2050 – aiming to invest AED600bn by 2050 to meet the growing energy demand and ensure sustainable growth for the country’s economy. How is your company contributing to achieving this goal?
One of the key pillars of UAE’s Energy Strategy of 2050 is infrastructure that enables this transition and facilitates the clean energy mix. At TRANSCO, we are at the core of this vision. We plan, develop and deliver the critical infrastructure which enables energy transition through our power and water networks.
What is your company’s strategy to reducing carbon emissions?
At TRANSCO and in-line with TAQA’s ESG principles, we are adopting a multilayer strategy that positions us on a journey to achieve carbon emission reduction targets. Internally, we are focusing on our transmission network optimization through innovation and efficiency while also providing support to our customers in identifying opportunities to reduce carbon footprint and work towards a more sustainable future.
What trends and technologies do you see impacting the future of the power and water industry in the next decade?
Over the years, it was evident that technology and technical innovations play an important role in our energy industry. With renewables power generation and RO water production becoming a reality, this encourages us to adopt digitalization, AI, electrification, as well as smart grids. This is addition to the focus on further optimization of our operational performance and maintenance effectiveness.
In your opinion, what is the role of power and water consumers in driving utilities’ business models?
We are seeing greater awareness by customers and an increased demand for access to cleaner energy. As a transmission business, in the middle of the supply chain, we are investing in the infrastructure that facilitates this diversification, while ensuring the security, safety and reliability of our transmission network.