Special spaces in Abu Dhabi shops will be allocated for displaying only the most energy-efficient and water-saving products to cut consumption levels and protect environment, announced authorities.

The Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC), an entity of Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA), said it has launched the 'Green Corner' initiative, with special spaces within shops to promote water-saving and power-efficient products.

The announcement was made on Wednesday at the International Water Summit (IWS) 2018 taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC).

The initiative aims at helping shops in Abu Dhabi to guide their customers to purchase the highest energy and water-efficient appliances.

It is part of the 'Tarsheed' Demand Side Management programme from ADWEA and ADCC, which is meant to slash 20 per cent of the emirate's consumption of electricity and water by 2030.

"The 'Green Corner' initiative is part of our efforts to encourage our customers to use electricity and water more efficiently, in line with the directives of our visionary leadership and Abu Dhabi Vision 2020 and ADDC's strategy," said Saeed Mohammed Al Suwaidi, managing director of ADDC.

"Market research and surveys indicated that power-efficient products are not always promoted well in the local retail outlets. Our customers have a right to be able to choose efficient products that can save them money on their bills and protect the environment, which is why we are launching this initiative".

The residential sector accounts for 22 per cent of the emirate's total power consumption and 42 per cent of the water consumption. Hence, the ADDC deemed it crucial to promote the use of efficient appliances and fittings and to provide customers with all the necessary information pursuant to the Federal Law No (24) for 2006 for the protection of consumer's rights.

The 'Green Corner' spaces will be dedicated to exhibit only the most efficient, four and five-star rated products as certified by Abu Dhabi Quality Control and Conformity Council (QCC) and the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA).

Appliances covered by these standards include refrigerators and freezers, washing machines, air conditioners, televisions, dishwashers, heaters, irrigation equipment and water-saving fixtures. Labels applied to each of these products display the star rating and provide information on typical power and water consumption to help consumers select the most efficient ones.

ADDC, in association with QCC, ESMA and Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED), will identify the products to be displayed at the Green Corner and produce marketing materials and product information guides. Workshops for the retail stores' staff will give training on how to provide relevant guidance to customers on power and water-efficient products.

Selected retailers must follow the DED's directives regarding the allocation of the 'Green Corner' and display items accordingly. The department will also conduct regular inspection campaigns to ensure that the directives are adhered to.
 
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