Powering Progress: How Grid Excellence is Enabling a Renewable Future in Abu Dhabi
As the UAE accelerates towards Net Zero by 2050, grid operability is proving to be the foundation for meaningful decarbonisation. In this session, Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) explores how advanced grid management technologies and operational excellence are enabling the integration of unprecedented volumes of renewable and clean energy into the power system.
In 2023, EWEC successfully met over 80 per cent of total power demand from renewable and clean energy sources, a milestone made possible by sophisticated real-time data systems, inter-control centre coordination, and enhanced forecasting capabilities. With a State Estimator Quality Index of 98.5 per cent, the highest in MENA, EWEC is setting regional and global benchmarks in grid reliability and system adaptability.
This presentation will highlight how EWEC’s investments in Energy Management System technologies, coupled with strategic operational planning, are making it possible to balance sustainability targets with system stability. It will also share how these advancements are critical to supporting utility-scale solar and nuclear integration, driving emissions reductions, and ensuring energy security across Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE.
Speaker(s)
Naji Al Messabi is Power Network Operations Director at EWEC. In his role, Naji is responsible for overseeing real-time operations, operations planning, and the management and control of high-voltage transmission systems, ensuring the seamless integration of advanced technologies within EWEC's power network.
Naji has been instrumental in transforming power operations across Abu Dhabi, played a pivotal role in advancing the integration of clean energy resources, strengthening network planning, and laying the foundation for a more sustainable power network in the UAE. His strategic approach and commitment to innovation have supported EWEC’s strategic visions and enabled EWEC to be at the forefront of the global energy transition.
Prior to his role at EWEC, Naji accumulated over 15 years of experience in the power system industry. He is an expert in power systems analysis, real-time operations, and the economic despatch of energy. His extensive experience includes work in energy management applications, renewable energy, nuclear power, and project management.
Naji holds an MBA from the Abu Dhabi School of Management, an MSc in Electrical Engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, and a BSc in Electrical Engineering from the American University of Sharjah.