Abu Dhabi, March 28th, 2011 (WAM) -- The Emirates Foundation for Philanthropy, supported by a donation of US$1 million from ExxonMobil, has launched the third round of its annual Energy Efficiency Competition.
The competition, managed through the Foundations Science, Technology & Environment Programme, awards funding to projects and initiatives that strengthen public awareness of energy efficiency across the UAE.The US$ 1 million (AED 3.68 million) donation continues ExxonMobils energy efficiency partnership with the Emirates Foundation, which began in 2008 as part of its US$ 5 million (AED 18.4 million) commitment to the Foundations endowment and projects.
The Emirates Foundation's Managing Director, Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, thanked ExxonMobil for its continued partnership and for its financial support to the Foundation. He commented: "ExxonMobil's deep knowledge and international experience of the energy business will be of great help for us - as we continue to raise public awareness and promote energy efficiency and sustainable technologies across the country."The Energy Efficiency Competition encourages and strengthens projects that raise the capacity of individuals, student groups, schools, neighborhood associations, universities and non-profit organizations to promote effective ways to save energy and protect the unique environment of the UAE. The Foundation has successfully completed two rounds of its Energy Efficiency Competition, supporting hundreds of Emiratis in promoting energy-efficient practices throughout the country. The third round in 2011 focuses on five areas: research; workshop and conference support; training participation; local level initiatives and public awareness. Morten Mauritzen, President of ExxonMobil affiliates in Abu Dhabi, said the partnership reflected the companys strong commitment to energy efficiency. "Energy efficiency is one of the largest and lowest cost ways to extend energy supplies and reduce greenhouse gas emissions," said Mauritzen. "ExxonMobil is committed to energy efficiency in our global operations, technology research and with our partnerships, including initiatives with community organizations. We are honoured to be working with the Emirates Foundation in this crucial area."Dr. Lamya Faisal, Head of the Foundations Environment Programme, pointed out: "Hundreds of Emirati nationals, including students, researchers, and professionals are engaged in projects that have greatly benefited from ExxonMobils funding. Through the implementation of new technologies and practices, the grants are helping to save energy throughout the UAE."Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2011.
