An innovative service provided by the Al Ain Distribution Company (AADC) is offering residents of the UAE capital’s eastern region free water and electricity audits to help them improve efficiency and save money.

AADC, the sole distributor of water and electricity in Al Ain region of Abu Dhabi, said the new service Estisharat (consulting in Arabic) is available to both existing homeowners and people planning to build new homes and buildings, free of charge.

Under this scheme,  an AADC team of specialised technicians visit and assess residents’ premises and provide advice ranging from the number of electrical connections needed to the best options for energy-efficient appliances and water connections.

“Our homes are a major source of energy and water use, and improving the efficiency of new and existing homes while educating customers about consumption is not only helping people save money, it is a key component of the emirate’s sustainable future,” said Abdullah Ali Al Sheryani, the director of customer service at AADC.

"Estisharat audit is an excellent way for homeowners to know where in their homes they are using the most water and electricity, and which conservation measures would be the best for them to implement first. The audit also highlights any defects that could expose residents to unnecessary risks," he added.

Al Sheryani said these energy audits could help homeowners save up to 30 per cent on their bill, depending on their usage and circumstances.

Once the Estisharat team has performed the initial audit, they retain regular contact with the homeowners to support them in their efforts to use water and electricity efficiently.

“Investments in low-energy and water systems are great ways to save money, energy and water – but reducing what you are already using should always be the first step,” stated Al Sheryani.

Lauding the initiative, Rashed al Rashedi, the deputy director general at the Regulation and Supervision Bureau (RSB), said it formed an important part of the sector’s efforts to promote wiser water and electricity consumption habits.

RSB is the independent regulatory body for the water, wastewater and electricity sector of Abu Dhabi.

“Most people can do small things to save water and electricity in the home, but a specialised auditor can give a more comprehensive view. Audits like the Estisharat service can help owners understand their home’s water and energy strengths and weaknesses, and how to make the most cost-effective improvements,” said Al Rashedi.

“Looking at the bigger picture, such projects bring tangible results and, along with other initiatives carried out in the sector, provide valuable data that can inform strategies and policies on a larger scale,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service