Investment in Power Sector
Country Amount
UAE US$926 billion
Saudi Arabia US$614 billion
Kuwait US$271 billion
Qatar US$230 billion
Oman US$104 billion
Bahrain US$66 billion
Now in its 36th year Middle East Electricity, the region’s largest trade show for the power and energy sector, which took place from 8-10 February 2011 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, focused on power generation, transmission and distribution; commercial, industrial and residential lighting; water; new and renewable energy; and nuclear energy.
This year’s Middle East Electricity saw close to 100 Indian companies showcasing their products & services in the field of Power, Energy & Engineering sector. India’s share in the Gulf countries import of electrical machinery & apparatus has almost doubled in past 2 years which reflects the strength and confidence in the Indian manufacturers and products in region. The 2011 show also saw Engineering Export Promotion Council – EEPC bring their members especially from the Small scale Engineering sector to the show.
UAE is expecting primary energy demand to increase by 71% by 2019, Kuwait plans to double power capacity to 20,000 megawatts (MW) by 2020 and Saudi Arabia’s power consumption is set to rise 57% to 65,000 MW by 2018.
“Translated into investment dollars, the planned regional spend totals $2.3 trillion, broken down as follows; UAE: US$926 billion; Saudi Arabia: US$614 billion; Kuwait: US$271 billion; Qatar: US$230 billion; Oman: US$104 billion and Bahrain: US$66 billion,” said Anita Mathews, Exhibition Director, Middle East Electricity 2011.
To stay ahead of the curve, a new strategic approach now puts sustainability, efficiency and diversity at the centre of GCC energy policy, with Private Public Partnerships (PPP) also playing an integral support role.
“Governments realise they must strike a balance between the social, environmental and economic needs as well as private sector commitment,” added Mathews. “Power generation also plays a significant role in water supply. Governments across the region face severe water shortages as demand begins to outstrip supply. However most potable water is derived from desalination plants which of course need power,” added Mathews.
Other features of this year’s event included the inaugural Leaders’ Forum where international and regional industry experts examined solutions to the region’s demand and supply challenges, through smart grids and sustainable business practices.
Lighting at Middle East Electricity continued to be the region’s largest and longest-running lighting event. Year after year, the exhibition attracts the largest number of high quality visitors sourcing lighting products. Over 250 exhibitors at Middle East Electricity last year showcased lighting related products and services.