Dubai: Residents are urged to switch off all non-essential home appliances and rationalise the use of electricity during peak hours between noon and 6pm as part of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s (Dewa) Peak Load campaign.

Dewa’s campaign encourages residents to reduce water consumption as well as power usage, as part of its commitment to sustainable development.

“To achieve the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 to reduce energy demand by 30 per cent, and our strategy to strengthen sustainable development through the sensible use of energy, Dewa has launched several awareness campaigns and initiatives to preserve natural resources for generations to come,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing director and CEO of Dewa.

The Peak Load Campaign contributes to raising awareness among Dewa’s customers on the importance of avoiding the use of equipment and electrical appliances at peak times. Dewa urges customers to switch off electrical irons, washing and dryer machines, dishwashers, water heaters and electric ovens during peak hours.

Commercial and industrial customers are encouraged to shift their less critical energy operations from peak times to off-peak hours, as part of the campaign. Shifting the load will invariably save fuel used in power generation, and facilitate the conservation of natural resources and reduce emissions.

The campaign seeks to encourage domestic customers to help reduce the load on the electricity system by using high-consumption appliances after the peak period.

“Air-conditioning represents about 60 per cent of the load during peak-time consumption. By reducing air-conditioning even marginally, it is possible for consumers not only to lower their electricity bills but also increase the overall reliability and efficiency of the electrical system,” added Al Tayer.

He said that if every person changed the temperature of their air-conditioning in their homes or offices from 20 degrees Celsius to either 23 or 24 degrees during peak hours, this will considerably reduce energy consumption. By adopting such a small measure, it is possible to save thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions.

The Peak Load Campaign will essentially target the residential customer base through mainstream media and also reach out to commercial and industrial consumers through direct marketing, which will be supported by PR and customer engagement measures.