Mandatory implementations
There is no doubt that renewable energy is the way of the future. The Earth has been rid of its contents over the past 100 years and it cannot last forever. Fossil fuels being burnt have created havoc in the planet’s atmosphere, resulting in countless problems. Turning to renewable energy alternatives is the only option!
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) should be lauded for its initiatives in controlling energy costs and consumption. But, I don’t see a tenant investing in solar panels, even if Dewa is willing to set it up. The return on investment will span at least 10 years. Can a tenant, or a landlord even for that matter, guarantee that long a tenure? This is not a reasonable option proposed by Dewa. The onus should be on the landlords, not the tenants! Landlords will continue to own the buildings and they are in a position to wait out the return on investment and subsequent profits, not the tenants. I have been wondering ever since 2002 when the freehold or designated sector was opened up as to why solar and renewable energy implementations were not made mandatory in all new projects? Even now there isn’t a clear mandate. Solar technology is getting cheaper and better by the day. Serious issues need tough measures.
From Mr Ajit Lamba
UAE
Necessary alternatives
The amount of natural gas and oil used in the UAE to generate power is staggering. More is needed for the desalination of water. In the 10 years from 1990 until 2000, electric power consumption rose by 73 per cent to 38.7 billion kw/h.
The population in the UAE is now on the rapid rise, part of the exponential curve. Every bit of power conserved or generated by renewable means will result in the ability to keep pace with a similar rise in demand for desalinated water, which mostly relies upon fossil fuels for generation.
The promotion of renewable energy is not only going to make a difference, but within the next 10 to 20 years, it will be absolutely essential. Hence, the reason for alternative energy in the form of nuclear power.
From Mr David Woodward
Dubai
More useful for business
I would say that it will be a positive impact both environmentally as well as economically in the long term. It’s possible that solar energy might be more worthwhile for the business sector rather than middleclass communities due to its high cost and as well as some other technical issues. I hope in the near future that the overall consciousness of renewable energy will increase in all communities.
From Mr Qassim Mohammad
Dubai
Difficult to justify
The renewable energy sources, such as wind power and solar technology, are likely to make a difference if you are looking at the benefits in the long run. Residential complexes can collectively choose to install the renewable energy sources provided the initial cost is either borne by the state authorities or made available under subsidies. Renewable energy programmes make more sense for larger industries and service sectors due to their huge consumption of power and subsequent costs. If there is one thing that holds back people from supporting solar panels, it’s the cost factor associated with the initial implementation and subsequent maintenance.
Solar panels and wind power mechanisms require large investments, customisation of the existing facility, training and continuous maintenance to keep them running. Still, it is hoped that, eventually, renewable energy is the way forward as a viable strategy for mankind in order to sustain the environment. The initiative also requires a change in the mindset of people translating it into the practice of conserving energy wherever possible.
However, solar panels and wind power technology have their limitations depending on geographical locations that determine the availability of sunlight and wind speed. For instance, in the northern hemisphere, solar panels may not be a practical option.
From Mr V. I. Mohammad Sageer
UAE
A good investment
I have been hearing about renewable energy projects since I was in college, but I have not found any action on the subject for over 30 years. This is still being taught as a subject of education in most countries without implementation on the ground.
Taking a note of global warming, declining oil reserves, the risk in having nuclear power and depleting water reserves for hydro power projects, renewable energy can be a viable solution. So far it is only in the proposal stages in most of the governments worldwide. Solar power and windmills can solve some of the energy problems by taking some share of energy requirements. Countries like the UAE that have 365 days of bright sunshine can install solar energy plants for heavy use.
Investment and maintenance on alternative and renewable solar energy may have an initial heavy investment with maintenance cost included, but it is a good solution for sustainability of the community, city and country.
From Mr S. K. Mehta
UAE
Hesitating on expenses
Yes, I feel renewable sources of energy can surely make a huge difference in our society today. Coming up with various ways to improve energy conservation should always be encouraged and it requires support from everyone.
Likewise, setting up solar panels for every home is difficult due to the expenses even if the residents want to contribute towards this effort, the returns are not immediate. This will definitely make people hesitant towards this effort. An alternate way of dealing with this could be quite helpful.
From Ms Lekshmi Mini
UAE
For our future
Solar and wind power is an alternative source of energy. Nowadays, the world is thinking in a different way. Both wind and solar energy is clean energy and the Dubai authorities taking initiative is commendable. We can save energy costs by installing solar water heaters and solar bulbs. Back in my hometown in Kerala, I have done the same about 10 years ago. As a result, my utility bill is very low. We have seen the Impulse 2 Airplane take off from Abu Dhabi and it is going to set a new trend in the aviation industry. Clean energy, water and environment should be our motto and definitely our future depends on this.
From Mr Eappen Elias
Dubai
Needed for survival
With people utilising all mineral resources and these resources edging towards scarcity, it is inevitable for man to accept the fact that alternate resources are our only chance of survival. Where manmade resources are limited in number, natural resources in the form of wind and solar power are unlimited and can assist us to fulfil the daily needs of everyone. Capitalising on solar and wind power will require a one-time investment while it gives the investor a lifelong supply of solar and wind energy to run their home and businesses. It will reduce the exploitation of natural resources and let humans use an unlimited supply of Nnature’s blessings. It is high time that we figure out ways to reduce carbon emissions, sustain life on Earth, let animal and plant life live with ease and protect Nature because if there is no Nature, then man’s survival will also fall into jeopardy.
From Mr Omar Eftikhar
Karachi, Pakistan
Availability
While renewable forms of energy, in the way of solar and wind power, have the potential to make a difference, implementation must be on a continued basis. Earth Hour is a much celebrated event, but its significance is downplayed during the rest of the year, as is seen by the huge amounts of disregard for the environment on a daily basis. The strategy for residents to put up their own solar panels and be paid if there is excess power contributing to the grid is a noble one, but certain provisions are to be made for maximum effectiveness.
Subsidising these for residents who cannot afford to buy and install solar panels would be effective. Though these forms of energy might be a saving grace, they must be efficiently exploited so as to be accessible to all sections of society.
From Ms Aisha Eapen
UAE
Make it happen now
Solar energy is not just the future; it can very easily be the present as well. There are excellent companies that have produced cutting edge products that now make it affordable to use solar power today. Some of those companies exist right here in the UAE, and I feel that it is extremely important to raise awareness so that these technologies can take root and develop to a point that they become the norm. Imagine a world free of pollution and sustainable energy growth without the added undesirable political impacts.
From Mr Najib Zaman
UAE
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