H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has directed the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA) to launch a "Power Consumption Hour" initiative. As part of the initiative, every year beginning July 1, people will be exhorted to shut off all non-essential power consuming devices between 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm, an hour when demand for electricity increases and loads reach peak levels.

The initiative is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of optimal use of energy and reducing carbon emissions by shutting down unnecessary devices and electronic gadgets as well as paying attention to periodical maintenance.

Dr. Rashid Al Leem, the Chairman of SEWA, who made the announcement yesterday, also indicated that the initiative was in line with the continuous follow up of Sheikh Sultan and his keenness to raise awareness and involve all segments of society to contribute towards addressing vital issues.

Al Leem added that the Sharjah Ruler has directed that all necessary facilitations be extended and efforts be rallied by the government and private departments to achieve the objectives of the initiative which would contribute towards rationalising power consumption.

Commenting on the goals of the initiative, he reiterated that it will start in Sharjah and will be disseminated at the local, regional and global levels.