Abu Dhabi’s power usage is relatively inconsistent, with the city’s ultra-hot summers attracting mass usage of a air conditioning service. Despite the dry air, many residents feel uncomfortable using ceiling fans and natural cooling systems. Air conditioning is more of a necessity than a luxury, with businesspeople and expatriates regularly planning their daily movements around which shopping centres are available to walk through.

Other country’s have experimented with progressive and peak/off-peak power pricing systems in the past. Tropical city Singapore has used time-based power metres in the past, but currently uses a standard system. Much like Abu Dhabi, its year-round hot climate requires the use of air conditioning and heat relief virtually every day.

Abu Dhabi also plan to bring tighter measures to their water system, encouraging water recycling for tasks such as cleaning and irrigation. Almost all of the city’s water supply is available through desalination, leading many to link decreased usage with overall lowered expenses.

The results of the trials are, as of yet, unknown. While the city’s ordinances plan to listen to feedback on the new pricing systems and dual-tied electricity usage, it’s possible that the new power system will result in some skewed data. With many residents unable to get by without air conditioning, turn-it-off incentives could cause nothing but increased revenues.