Etihad ESCO, the energy management services provider established by DEWA, has submitted a tender for the largest rooftop solar PV project in the region.

Etihad ESCO will design and install the most comprehensive energy efficiency solutions and rooftop solar PV panels for a total of 640 villas in Hatta in the emirate of Dubai, said a company press release.

The housing projects are developed under the Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan, which was launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. According to Etihad ESCO, the project will be completed by end of 2018, and is expected to yield high energy savings.

“This will be one of the first projects undertaken by Etihad Solar. Under this landmark tender, we will be installing rooftop solar PVs at villas in Hatta, and provide maintenance services for two years thereafter,” said Ali Al Jassim, CEO of Etihad ESCO.

Etihad Solar is a dedicated division under Etihad ESCO established to distribute solar power generation solutions across the energy sector in the UAE. The Hatta project will also create technical, administrative and operational jobs, and is expected to provide opportunities for ESCOs in the region.

The $353.9m Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan aims to boost the area’s social and economic attractiveness as a world-class environmental tourist destination. It covers three key areas including the economic and service sector, tourism and sports, and culture and education.