Etihad Energy Service Company (Etihad Esco) and Economic Zones World (EZW) have jointly completed the first phase of the Energy Consumption Reduction Programme for Jebel Ali Free Zone buildings, said a report.

EZW, the parent company of Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), said the programme was one of the largest of its kind in the Middle East region which allowed it to enhance its operational efficiency and lower the carbon footprint of its operations, reported the Wam news agency.

As per an agreement last December, Etihad ESCO conducted a feasibility study to find ways to cut down power and water usage across Jafza's commercial, residential and industrial facilities, the report stated.

The completion of the first phase by Etihad ESCO marks an important milestone in its strategy to make Jafza's buildings greener and more efficient.

"We are pleased to see that more significant savings can be made and we are looking forward to further collaboration with Etihad ESCO to realise these savings. The strategic partnership with Etihad ESCO will further drive collaboration that enhances Dubai's leadership and global competitiveness," stated Salma Hareb, the chief executive of EZW.

Discussions are currently underway to initiate the second phase of the programme to implement and finance the energy-efficiency upgrades to the buildings and to monitor the entire performance throughout the duration of the programme against set energy targets, the report added.