Dubai: Solar energy now powers 22 RTA sites under green infrastructure push
Annual output to cut 10,000 tonnes of carbon emissions
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed the installation of solar energy systems at 22 of its key facilities, reinforcing the city’s transition towards clean energy.
The initiative is part of RTA’s broader sustainability goals and supports the emirate’s Zero-Emissions Public Transport Strategy 2050. It also aligns with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030.
The solar panel installations are expected to generate nearly 32 million kilowatt-hours annually. According to RTA, this output will help reduce approximately 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year — equivalent to removing over 2,000 cars from the road annually. The initiative demonstrates a strong commitment to reducing environmental impact through large-scale renewable energy adoption.
Strategic locations
The 22 solar-equipped sites span a diverse range of RTA operational hubs. These include 16 core facilities across sectors such as metro depots, bus depots, and public transport stations. Notable locations include Al Quoz, Al Khawaneej, and Al Rowaiyah bus depots; bus stations in Al Satwa and Oud Metha; as well as maintenance workshops in Al Muhaisnah. These installations aim to support daily transit operations with greener, more efficient energy use.
Smart monitoring
All solar systems are integrated with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s (DEWA) standards. Energy generation is tracked in real-time via the Shams Dubai Calculator, which provides live data on performance from each site. This ensures operational efficiency and helps identify any potential issues swiftly.
Shaikha Ahmad Al Shaikh, Director of Buildings and Facilities at the RTA’s Corporate Administrative Support Services Sector, noted that each installation was tailored to the specific requirements of the site, ensuring maximum energy efficiency and safety.