Gulf Construction Online - Middle East 'needs huge investments'

Power Generation

Middle East 'needs huge investments'

Power generation is a critical issue for the Middle East with demand outstripping supply in many countries. The industry's biggest players will tap into one of the world's fastest growing markets at a major show scheduled for February in Dubai.

01 September 2003

Billions of dollars of investments will be needed in the Middle East's power generation sector to satify the demand from a growing population and the booming construction and industrial sectors.

According to the World Energy Council the six GCC states will require 100,000 MW of additional power over the next 10 years. Saudi Arabia alone will have to add 2,000 MW every year to meet double-digit growth. Elsewhere in the GCC annual capacity expansion is forecast to range between 7 per cent and 10 per cent, says Sarah Woodbridge, exhibitions director, Power and Energy Division, IIR Exhibitions, organiser of Middle East Electricity 2004.

'There is huge demand for the latest technological innovations in energy related equipment across all of industry sectors, from power generation to lighting and new and renewable energy,' says Woodbridge.

Middle East Electricity 2004, to be held in Dubai from February 15 to 18, will see the debut of a dedicated power generation arena.
The section will include the biggest names in the industry. Among those already contracted to take part in the event are, Cavotec, Crompton Greaves, Danway, Ducab, East West Trading International, Haris Al Afaq, Henikwon Corporation, Kema, Malisco, MGE UPS Systems, Nynas Napthenics Middle East, S R Electric Company, Saudi Electric Transformers Factory, Wahah Electric Supply Company of Saudi Arabia and Zamil Steel Industries, she said.

Prior to the Iraq conflict, US government estimates had put the country's annual generating capacity at about 4,500 MW, less than half the pre-1991 level and some 2,500 MW below demand. Industry sources say that to meet future demand, and ensure Iraq's full recovery, a further 10,000 to 15,000 MW of capacity must be added by 2015, at a cost of between $10 billion and $15 billion.

'Middle East Electricity 2004 will enable regional and international power industry suppliers to gain first hand knowledge of the region's needs and to switch on business relationships with companies involved in the power generation sector,' Woodbridge said.
The event will be the biggest ever, occupying 14,000 sq m of space at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre (DIEC). In addition to the power generation arena, it will also feature vertical forums for the new and renewable energy and lighting sectors.
The show, supported by the UAE's Ministry of Electricity and Water and the Federal Electricity and Water Authority, will also host the Middle East Electricity Ministers Summit on the first day of an expanded three-day conference programme that will address critical regional power sector issues.