EtihadWE Partners with NYU Abu Dhabi to Advance AI in Utilities Sector
Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) to explore collaborative opportunities in electricity and water sectors. This partnership focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to identify and implement innovative solutions that enhance utility operations.
The MoU was signed during the IDRA World Congress, a prominent biennial event organized by the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, which brings together global experts to discuss sustainable water solutions, including desalination and advanced water treatment technologies.
Under this agreement, a steering committee will evaluate and analyze AI applications in areas such as:
- Predictive analytics for utilities
- Real-time energy demand forecasting
- Detection of non-technical losses
- Consumer energy usage optimization
- Development of advanced machine learning models
- Capacity building and knowledge exchange initiatives
The partnership will establish working groups to facilitate the development and implementation of these collaborative initiatives. Both EtihadWE and NYU Abu Dhabi will contribute resources, expertise, and data, with the possibility of further agreements depending on the outcomes.
Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE, highlighted the importance of this partnership:
“Population growth in the Northern Emirates, along with industrial and commercial expansion, has significantly increased demand for utilities. Through this MoU, we can explore AI’s potential to enhance water security and align energy sector growth with the UAE’s Net Zero objectives. This collaboration is another step toward delivering seamless and exceptional experiences for our valued customers.”
Dr. Arlie Petters, Provost of NYU Abu Dhabi, added:
“NYU Abu Dhabi is committed to advancing innovation through meaningful partnerships. This collaboration with EtihadWE underscores our shared dedication to using AI and advanced technologies to drive sustainable solutions in the energy and water sectors. Together, we aim to develop smarter, more efficient systems that support the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future.”
In recent years, EtihadWE has invested heavily in technological advancements to improve service delivery. The company has allocated over AED 5 billion to its water business, integrating technologies such as acoustic inspection, SmartBall systems, and data loggers to detect anomalies in water flow that may indicate leaks.
Additionally, EtihadWE’s smart meter rollout provides customers with real-time consumption data, complemented by a mobile application for account management and an AI-powered chatbot for quick support.
This new MoU with NYUAD builds on EtihadWE’s strategy of embracing AI and innovation, reinforcing its efforts to enhance service efficiency, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.
