The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) hosted Solar Decathlon Middle East (SDME) has encouraged the need for the use of disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), 3D printing, and unmanned aerial vehicles in the construction of solar-powered houses.
The SDME, organized under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council in Dubai, also emphasized the UAE’s role as a global hub for innovators and creative minds.
It also supported DEWA’s efforts to boost the participation of youth from all over the world to develop innovative solutions that help global climate action and the transition to a more sustainable lifestyle in order to protect the environment and natural resources.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer MD & CEO DEWA
“Our vision is to empower the youth and engage them in the development process as well as anticipate and shape the future. We also aim to enhance their contribution to achieving sustainable development goals through research using the latest innovative technologies.”
One of the most notable projects is by the University of Sharjah team, whose sustainable house develops the industrial, social and environmental skills of its residents, with spaces designated for virtual and physical workshops and a fabrication lab with flexible computer-controlled tools such as 3D modeling and computer-aided design to meet home needs.
The building’s design is based on the concept of “a box within a box,” in which the outer layer protects against the external climate while attracting sunlight to generate solar energy. Meanwhile, the inner layer maintains the house at a steady temperature.
The first SDME was held in 2018, for the first time in the Middle East and the second SDME is being organized in conjunction with Expo 2020 Dubai at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park as part of a partnership between DEWA, the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, and the US Department of Energy.
