Voluntary blackout saves 146,000 kWh in Dubai
By Emmanuelle Landais, Staff Reporter
Published: March 31, 2009, 23:55
Dubai: Electricity consumption in Dubai dropped by 146,000 kWh during Earth Hour 2009 last Saturday when residents and organisations switched off their lights as part of the global event.
According to the Dubai Water and Electricity Authority (Dewa), power consumption fell by an extra 46 per cent since Earth Hour 2008 and represented an 88,000 kg drop in CO2 gas emissions.
Last year, Dubai was the first Arab city to take part in Earth Hour and electricity consumption dropped by 100,000 kWh.
The overall figure for the UAE has not yet been released. The Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah took part in the 'vote for the Earth over climate change' - so called by the WWF who initiated the 60 minute blackout in all major cities around the world.
Saeed Mohammad Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dewa, led the official public display of support for Earth Hour, held at The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence.
"We wish to thank everyone who participated in Earth Hour. The cut in electricity of 146,000 kWh shows what can be done when people act collectively to save energy. Now, we hope everyone will build on Earth Hour and save energy every hour of every day."
Dubai landmark buildings which dimmed or turned off lights were the Burj Al Arab, Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, DIFC's The Gate, Emirates Towers and the World Trade Centre.
Source: http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/Environment/10300106.html
