DEWA’s Space-D Program: Pioneering the Use of Nanosatellites for Utilities Management
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has made significant strides with its Space-D program, utilizing nanosatellite technology to revolutionize utilities management. Since its launch in January 2022, DEWA-SAT 1 has transmitted 2,690 megabytes of data to its ground station, enhancing operational efficiency and infrastructure monitoring.
The 3U nanosatellite features an onboard IoT system with LoRa (long-range) technology for secure, low-power wireless communication. HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, emphasized the program’s role in advancing digitalization and sustainability. DEWA’s Space-D initiative uses nanosatellites to support remote asset monitoring, improve operational planning, and enhance the efficiency of electricity and water networks.
DEWA is the world’s first utilities provider to deploy nanosatellites for operational improvement. The program includes two satellites, DEWA-SAT 1 and DEWA-SAT 2, launched in January 2022 and April 2023, respectively. These nanosatellites monitor critical assets, track weather conditions, and collect power quality data, all while being managed by a highly trained Emirati workforce.
The program also contributes to research and innovation, with seven research papers published in collaboration with partners. By adopting cutting-edge technologies, DEWA is accelerating digital transformation and supporting Dubai’s sustainability goals.
