Dubai is all set to achieve an incredible 50 per cent reduction in energy consumed by external lighting by 2030, thanks to a series of ambitious energy conservation projects underway, ac-cording to a government official.

The sustainability push is driven by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) under the Dubai Outdoor Lighting Programme, which is part of the overarching Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 and its Demand Side Management segment.

Faisal Ali Hassan Rashid, Director of Demand Side Management at the DSCE, will shed light on the goals set under the programme and the means by which they will be achieved, when he delivers the opening presentation at the upcoming Light Middle East Conference.

Rashid said that the DSCE envisions a saving of up to 300 Gwh of energy consumption by 2030 through a comprehensive programme of replacing current lighting systems with envi-ronmentally friendly LED lamps, and a stringent switch-off policy which will minimise energy wastage.

The programme will see the Dubai Road and Transport Authority (RTA) retrofit up to 75 per cent of Dubai's existing street lights with LEDs, while at the same time implement a switch-off policy across the Emirate's residential streets.
Meanwhile lights at Dubai's parks and public promenades are being limited to a six-hour usage period and will be totally replaced by LEDs and other environmentally-friendly lighting systems by 2030.

“The Dubai Outdoor Lighting Programme will deliver tangible electricity savings and introduce modern technology, thus making an integral contribution to ensuring the city's sustainable fu-ture,” said Rashid.

“The programme is a part of Dubai’s Demand Side Management for the Dubai Integrated En-ergy Strategy 2030, which aims to achieve a 30 per cent reduction in energy by 2030 compar-ing to business as usual.

“So far, the switch-off initiative is being implemented in some of Dubai’s residential areas and is delivering savings. Installations of LED lights are also being piloted to determine modalities of implementation across the city.”

Taking place from 4-5 November at the Dubai International Convention Centre, the Light Mid-dle East Conference is a feature of Light Middle East, the region’s premier trade event for lighting design and technology.

The two-day summit will spotlight key issues affecting the regional lighting industry, featuring a high-powered panel of international and regional lighting experts sharing key insights on the way ahead for the industry.

Added Rashid: “The Light Middle East Conference is an excellent reference point for lighting industry professionals, enabling them to learn the latest industry trends. The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy is delighted to be taking part and we look forward to interacting with both regional and international lighting consultants.”

Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt, the organiser of Light Middle East, said: “By providing a platform for leading lighting industry leaders and industry experts, the Light Middle East Conference along with Light Middle East play a significant role in promoting the overall development of the industry in the region.
“As the Middle East gains in prominence as a global lighting market, it is important that indus-try-spanning events such as Light Middle East reflect the growing international trends across the region.”

Featuring more than 275 exhibitors from over 25 countries, Light Middle East exhibition will take place from November 3 to 5, 2014.

Many of the top lighting manufacturers and consultants from across the world have already signed up for the three-day event, including Apollo Lighting, Artemide, Atex, Halophane, Hess, LG, Linea Light, Osram, Regiolux, Rovasi, Targetti, Trilux, and Martin by Harman.

With wide support from industry associations and regional authorities, Light Middle East offers a comprehensive interactive platform for manufacturers, architects, designers, consultants, engineers, construction companies, hospitality industry professionals, government officials and more.

Prominent among the attractions at this year’s 9th edition will be the Future Zone, an exciting showcase of futuristic products and technology, cutting-edge design and trends from some of the leading international manufacturers and designers.

Light Middle East 2014 will also feature the popular Light Middle East Awards, designed to celebrate excellence in lighting design. The Awards will recognise some of the region’s leading lighting projects across 12 categories. Nominated entries will be judged by a panel of renowned lighting design experts, with the deadline for entries set for 31st August 2014.

Caption: Faisal Ali Hassan Rashid, Director of Demand Side Management at the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, and a key speaker at the Light Middle East Confer-ence.