IoT-powered smart cities that converge operational technology (OT) with information technology (IT) can provide energy optimization and improve citizen services through analytics, real-time data management and intelligence capabilities. Built around this concept, Schneider Electric’s fourth ‘Power to the Cloud’ got underway recently at the Dubai Convention and Exhibition Centre as the largest regional event of its kind focused on smart cities.

The latest edition has convened more than 2,000 industry visitors and around 200 VIPs from across the Middle East, Europe and Africa region.

In his inaugural address, Saeed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) said, “This year’s Power to the Cloud comes at a time of rapid infrastructure transformation and economic change. As we strive to become smarter and more connected than ever before, we need to learn to leverage technologies that are eco-friendly. Today, the convergence of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) makes it possible to increase process efficiency and optimise scarce resources. This ties in with the UAE Government’s Vision 2021 launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which emphasises the importance of sustainable development and the preservation of the environment.”

The event was also attended by Dr. Rashid Al Leem, Chairman of Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA) and H.E. Matar Al Neyadi, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Energy.  Over the course of the two-day event, senior Schneider Electric experts will headline thought sessions on energy efficiency and highlight the latest in technology trends. In addition, key industry experts and customers including Etisalat, DEWA, Al Futtaim, Movenpick Group, Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Abu Dhabi Airports led panel discussions, and shed light on Schneider Electric’s value-add to their respective businesses.

Schneider Electric spotlighted its latest IoT-powered smart solutions through engaging simulations at a dedicated 5,000 square meter experiential zone. Among the solutions showcased include various elements of a smart city for homes, hotels, hospitals, educational institutions and utilities.

As an additional highlight this year, senior company experts will also discuss the strategic importance of Schneider Electric’s new ‘Life is ON’ brand strategy and its approach toward energy management through four pillars, namely connectivity, sustainability, efficiency, and reliability and safety.

Frédéric Abbal, Executive Vice-President of Energy Business, Schneider Electric, said, “It is important to create enriching community spaces for inhabitants through digital connection, technologies to simplify life and automation to streamline the businesses. These communities, which collectively form cities, need to be tied together with infrastructure that can accommodate the massively growing populations and their evolving expectations. Power to the Cloud, now in its fourth year, has greatly developed since its inception in 2012 and illustrates the progress Dubai is making on its evolution into a smart city. Through this educational platform, we hope to bring to light the technologies that will positively impact our living spaces and their environment.”