The Korea Electric Power Corporation (Kepco) has signed an agreement with state utilities provider Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (Dewa) to build a pilot smart grid project in the emirate.

Under the $3m contract, Kepco will establish a smart grid using:

• photovoltaic (PV) solar panels,
• energy storage systems (ESS) and
• integrated operating systems.

The project is a pilot for the Dubai Smart City scheme, and Kepco’s model is expected to be installed throughout the emirate if successful.

Dewa is planning to use smart grids to build its Smart City by 2021 as part of plans to improve national energy efficiency and reduce power consumption.