Insights from the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) 2025
Overview of WETEX 2025
Dubai, UAE, is currently hosting the 27th edition of the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX), a significant event organized by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). Running from September 30 to October 2, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, this year’s exhibition is held under the guidance of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and the patronage of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy. The second day of the exhibition featured an impressive lineup of 40 specialized seminars.
Key Seminar Highlights
Innovations in Renewable Energy
Several seminars focused on the latest advancements in renewable energy technologies. One notable session, titled “Rooftop Solar in Action,” showcased how EtihadWE’s Distributed Solar System is empowering both customers and the energy grid. Another seminar discussed the “Role of HVDC Technology and Cross-Border Interconnectors,” emphasizing their importance in facilitating the energy transition.
Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad ESCO, highlighted the affordability of renewable energy during the “Property Development Global Trends” seminar. He stated that renewable energy, particularly solar, is now more accessible than ever, allowing homeowners to invest in smart systems that not only reduce costs but also enhance property value. He stressed the necessity for behavioral changes alongside technological advancements to meet carbon neutrality and circular economy goals.
Smart Technologies in Energy Management
The seminar titled “How IoT and Digital Solutions for HV Substation Maintenance” featured insights from Andy Warner, Global Service Sales Manager at Hitachi Energy. He explained that modern maintenance strategies are shifting from reactive to predictive approaches, utilizing IoT and real-time monitoring to minimize unplanned outages and extend the lifespan of critical assets. This proactive strategy transforms maintenance from a cost center into a driver of profitability.
Sustainable Innovations in Data Centers
Matteo Angiolini from Tesar introduced the EcoPlus 2030 Transformer during the “Data Centre Application” session. This innovative transformer is designed to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions, particularly in energy-intensive data centers. By utilizing green steel and an optimized design, it can save over 104,000 kg of CO₂ over a 20-year lifecycle, equivalent to the emissions of approximately 4,300 cars.
Focus on Water Management
Advancements in Water Technology
The water seminars at WETEX 2025 addressed critical innovations in water management. One session introduced “Innovative RO Projection Software – AquaGrid,” while another discussed optimizing pump efficiency through advanced algorithms. The seminar on “Smart Water Networks” explored how AI can enhance water management efficiency.
Rabih Solh from GF Corris Piping Systems LLC emphasized the role of polymers in modern desalination infrastructure during the “The Polymer Shift” seminar. He noted that advanced polymer solutions can significantly reduce water production costs and improve sustainability, addressing challenges posed by traditional materials.
Tackling Biofouling in Water Treatment
The “Innovative Bio Fouling Monitoring Technology – mBFR” seminar featured Harutoki Shimura from Toray, who discussed the challenges of membrane biofouling in water treatment. His presentation highlighted how mBFR technology can predict and manage biofouling risks, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and resilience of desalination and water reuse systems.
The Future of Energy and Sustainability
AI and the Energy Transition
Several seminars focused on the integration of artificial intelligence in energy management. The session titled “Resilient Utilities in the Age of AI” featured insights from Fahad Faisal of Fortinet, who discussed the importance of implementing AI responsibly in operational technology environments. He emphasized that while AI may seem daunting today, it will become an integral part of industrial operations in the near future.
The “Energy Internet Platform” seminar addressed the complexities of the energy transition, highlighting how AI-powered platforms can facilitate real-time decision-making and optimize energy management. Demonstrations indicated that these solutions could reduce costs by 20-30% and significantly boost renewable energy adoption.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainability
The SRM Seminars aimed to strengthen partnerships between DEWA and suppliers, focusing on promoting sustainability and the circular economy. These discussions are crucial for fostering collaboration in achieving long-term environmental goals.
WETEX 2025 serves as a pivotal platform for showcasing innovations and fostering discussions that drive the future of energy, water management, and sustainability in the region.
