MoEI and Etihad have formalized a joint venture to deliver top-notch EV fast-charging infrastructure in the UAE.

The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) and Etihad Water and Electricity (Etihad WE) have announced a new joint venture called UAEV. This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the UAE. UAEV is the first EV charging network fully owned by the government.

Globally, the shift towards EVs is gaining momentum, with electric car sales reaching 10 million units in 2022 - five times higher than the sales in 2019. The partnership between MoEI and Etihad WE seeks to meet the current demand for EV infrastructure in the UAE and make it more convenient for residents to embrace environmentally friendly transportation.

Both MoEI and Etihad WE recognize the transformative potential of a robust EV infrastructure, understanding its wide-ranging implications for transportation, energy, and the environment.

Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, expressed that "UAEV signifies the strength of collaboration between the government and industry, with the goal of providing essential electric vehicle infrastructure to encourage EV adoption, invigorate communities, and unlock the economic potential of the UAE."

Al Mazrouei added, "We hope that this partnership will accelerate the transition to cleaner transportation, significantly reducing emissions from the transportation sector, and bringing us closer to achieving our Net Zero 2050 Strategy."

Sharif Al Olama, Under-Secretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI and Chairman of UAEV, stated, "In 2023, we observed an increase in EV adoption in the UAE. By expanding our EV infrastructure, we ensure that the country is ready to support those who have already purchased an EV and make the prospect of switching to EV more attractive."

"The UAEV partnership, between government and business, is based on the recognition of complementary strengths and the pursuit of common goals. Together, MoEI and Etihad WE form a powerful force, helping to future-proof the UAE and achieve the twin objectives of economic growth and climate action, which are the foundation of UAEV."

EV charging infrastructure (EVCI) plays a crucial role in EV adoption. UAEV is contributing to the advancement of the nation’s electric mobility journey and responding to consumer demand. It is also aligned with the vision of the UAE’s leadership, recognizing that sustainability and growth should go hand in hand.

The deployment of EV infrastructure presents significant economic opportunities, including job creation. Similarly, the type of EV infrastructure envisioned by UAEV will play a vital role in supporting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity and Board Member of UAEV, commented, "This is a significant milestone for our business. It is part of a deliberate strategy to diversify our operations, leveraging the knowledge and experience gained from our role as long-standing pioneers in the energy sector, to explore new products, services, projects, and investments that will benefit our customers and ensure the UAE capitalizes on emerging opportunities."

Al Ali continued, "UAEV's charging infrastructure will contribute to the modernization of the UAE’s transport network, help invigorate communities by creating new jobs, and empower our customers to make more sustainable choices."

As the largest employer in the Northern Emirates, with a customer base of over 2 million households, Etihad WE acknowledges that UAE consumers are increasingly aware of the impact their decisions have on the environment.

"The shift in mindset among our customers is positive and noticeable, and as a forward-thinking utilities business, we must anticipate their needs and equip them with the technology, products, tools, and infrastructure that supports and empowers them," concluded Yousif Ahmed Al Ali.

The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) and Etihad Water and Electricity (Etihad WE) expect to share further information about UAEV’s plans by the end of 2024.