Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has launched the Best Consumer Award, for the 11th consecutive year, to encourage residents of Dubai to be effective participants in the sustainable development of the Emirate. The award complements DEWAs efforts to protect the environment, reduce consumption of natural resources, and supports its vision to become a sustainable world-class utility.

To qualify for the award, customers have to achieve at least 10% reduction in their electricity and water consumption, from January to December 2014, compared to the previous year. Consumers who achieve the highest savings in electricity and water will receive cash prizes, in addition to appreciation certificates from DEWA. A total of AED 39,000 will be distributed among 13 participants. The first winner, who achieves the highest saving, will receive AED 10,000, the second will receive AED 5,000, and the third will receive AED 4,000. The following ten participants will receive AED 2,000 each.

The award supports the Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to promote the sustainable development of Dubai. It also supports the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030, to reduce energy consumption by 30% by 2030. The award is part of DEWAs efforts to raise awareness among all segments of society about the importance of rational consumption, and preserving natural resources. DEWA has achieved remarkable results in reducing electricity and water consumption in Dubai by promoting various conservation methods, said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA.

Participation in the award is open to residents in Dubai. Those willing to participate can register online on DEWAs website www.dewa.gov.ae under eSociety, or DEWAs smart app under the conservation menu, and then Best Consumer Award. The Awareness and Conservation team checks the customers consumption of electricity and water and compare against the previous year.

DEWA organises the annual Best Consumer Award to raise awareness about the importance of reducing electricity and water use, and encourage residential consumers to reduce their consumption of these resources by following certain tips and measures. DEWA launches various awareness campaigns and programmes, which target different consumers including educational institutions, residential and commercial buildings, and government organisations.