In a significant move to boost the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) has partnered with Etihad Water and Electricity (Etihad WE) to develop a government-owned electric vehicle charging network. This initiative marks a pivotal development in the country’s push towards sustainable transportation.
The collaboration, set to culminate in the establishment of a new entity named UAEV, aims to address the growing demand for EV infrastructure, making it more convenient for UAE residents to embrace environmentally friendly vehicles. The details of UAEV’s operational plans and further strategies are expected to be unveiled by the end of 2024.
Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and Chairman of UAEV, highlighted the rising trend of EV adoption within the nation. “In 2023, we witnessed a significant increase in the uptake of electric vehicles across the UAE,” Al Olama said. “This expansion of our EV infrastructure is essential not only to support existing EV owners but also to encourage more residents to consider making the switch to electric vehicles.”
The ambitious project sets an initial target to deploy 100 charging stations by the end of 2024, with a longer-term goal to install over 1,000 chargers by 2030. This rollout is intended to span across various strategic locations, thereby enhancing accessibility and convenience for EV users.
Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasized the collaborative nature of this initiative. “UAEV embodies the power of partnership between government and industry, aiming to provide the necessary infrastructure to promote the use of electric vehicles, energize our communities, and tap into the economic potential of the UAE,” stated Al Mazrouei.
This government-led initiative will complement existing efforts by other entities such as the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), tech-telecom operator e&, and a collaboration between TAQA and ADNOC Distribution, which are already contributing to the development of EV charging solutions in the UAE.
By bolstering its EV infrastructure, the UAE not only moves closer to achieving its environmental goals but also sets a precedent for integrating sustainable practices into its urban development plans.
