Key Takeaways
- Enhancing Water Security: Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) is implementing initiatives to improve water efficiency and support agricultural sustainability.
- Desalinated Water as a Sustainable Option: Reduced reliance on groundwater and cost-effective irrigation solutions are key components of the strategy.
- Revised Water Tariffs: A tiered pricing system introduced in 2022 has benefited over 1,300 farmers in the Northern Emirates.
- Strategic Collaboration: EtihadWE works with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to align with national sustainability goals.
- Government Commitment to Agriculture: Officials highlight the importance of sustainable water management in securing long-term food and water security for the UAE.
EtihadWE Introduces Sustainable Solutions for Agricultural Water Management
Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) is reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to food and water security through sustainable water management initiatives. By optimizing water consumption efficiency, alleviating pressure on groundwater resources, and ensuring the long-term viability of agricultural production, these efforts align with national strategies such as the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, the National Food Security Strategy 2051, and the National Water and Energy Demand Management Programme 2050.
Desalinated Water as a Key Irrigation Solution
Desalinated water has become a viable alternative to groundwater for irrigation, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective option for farmers. To facilitate this transition, EtihadWE has introduced a revised tariff structure, providing farmers with access to affordable water:
- Up to 600,000 gallons per month: 1.5 fils per gallon.
- 600,001 to 1.5 million gallons per month: 2 fils per gallon.
- Consumption exceeding 1.5 million gallons per month: 2.5 fils per gallon.
Since the implementation of these reduced tariffs in January 2022, more than 1,300 farmers in the Northern Emirates have benefited from the initiative, demonstrating strong adoption of desalinated water for agricultural use.
EtihadWE Leadership Perspectives on Sustainable Water Management
Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE, highlighted the company’s commitment to advancing water sustainability in alignment with national objectives.
“Aligned with the UAE’s vision for sustainability, we are dedicated to providing innovative solutions that enhance water consumption efficiency and support the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector. By investing in advanced technologies, we ensure a reliable water supply and promote responsible resource management.”
He further emphasized the role of strategic partnerships in achieving these goals: “Through collaboration with our strategic partners, primarily the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, we empower farmers with tangible financial savings while reinforcing their role in preserving natural resources. Investing in sustainable water practices secures the future of agriculture and upcoming generations.”
Government Commitment to Water and Food Security
Ahmed Al Kaabi, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Electricity, Water, and Future Energy Sector at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting sustainable water solutions for agriculture:
“We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to supporting the UAE’s food and water security objectives by providing sustainable solutions that improve water consumption efficiency in the agricultural sector and promote reliance on alternative water sources to ensure the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.”
He also underscored the significance of the revised water tariff system: “The introduction of reduced water tariffs for farmers reflects our commitment to enabling them to benefit from innovative solutions that generate financial savings while supporting national strategies, including the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 and the National Food Security Strategy 2051. We will continue working closely with our strategic partners to provide advanced solutions that ensure the sustainability of the water and agricultural sectors, which are essential pillars of sustainable development.”
Conserving Groundwater and Promoting Efficient Water Use
Dr. Mohamed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Food Diversity Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, emphasized the importance of groundwater conservation: “Our groundwater resources are invaluable, and conserving them is essential for maintaining ecological balance and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.”
He highlighted the significance of encouraging farmers to use desalinated water instead of groundwater for irrigation: “EtihadWE’s initiative is a significant step in supporting farmers and the agricultural community. Raising awareness about the benefits of desalinated water and promoting efficient water consumption will play a key role in fostering sustainable local agricultural production.”
