Increase of exhibitors showcasing alternative energy products and services at world’s leading energy event in Dubai
Dubai, UAE, 28 January, 2012: Integrating renewable energy generation into UAE power grids is more achievable and realistic than in other countries in Europe, an industry expert has said today.
Bruce Smith, Business Advisor for the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA), said that the abundance of renewable energy sources, particularly solar, in the UAE compared to unpredictable sources in Europe, means the country is ideally positioned to capitalise on next generation smart power applications.
“Addressing the question of whether integrating the UAE’s renewable energy generation capacity into the network presents a significant technical challenge, the short answer is no,” said Smith, as Dubai gears up to host Middle East Electricity, taking place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from 7 to 9 February, 2012.
“The target of seven per cent of Abu Dhabi’s generation capacity by 2020 and five per cent of Dubai’s by 2030 from renewable sources is relatively low from a global perspective and does not present a real problem for integration into the network. By way of comparison, the European Union has a 2020 target of 20 per cent of all energy consumption from renewable sources, necessitating a capacity far above this level in order to meet overall consumption.
Smith said that challenges exist in European nations where there are higher proportions of renewable energy in the overall energy mix and less reliable sources of solar and wind based renewable energy generation – an issue the UAE doesn’t have to contend with.
“Solar power is likely to form the bulk of the proposed capacity of renewable energy in the UAE, and radiation levels are more dependable and predictable during the peak demand period of the summer months than European wind and solar power resources,” he added.
Middle East Electricity 2012 is the world’s leading energy event that focuses on power, lighting, renewable, nuclear and water sectors. With the planet focusing on alternative energy as the future in global energy, renewables have become a key sector of growth within the exhibition.
At this year’s edition, almost 10 per cent of the exhibitors will be showcasing new and renewable energy products and services, including solar, wind, geothermal and nuclear energy.
Anita Mathews, exhibition director for Middle East Electricity said: “According to a recent report by Bloomberg New Energy Finance, renewables are expected to contribute to almost 15.7 percent of the world’s energy by 2030 and global spending is projected to hit US$7 trillion.
“Middle East and Africa are looking at an increase of 10 – 18 per cent annually between 2010 and 2020 on installed renewable capacity. This is a very huge investment in the sector validating the various countries’ commitment towards renewable energy initiatives.”
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Middle East Electricity will feature more than 1000 exhibitors looking to capitalise on the region’s booming energy sector.
Organised by Informa Exhibitions, Middle East Electricity 2012 is the partner event to Power + Water Middle East in Abu Dhabi and Africa Electricity in Johannesburg. To become an exhibitor, sponsor, or delegate, contact the Middle East Electricity team at +971 4 336 5161 or email: info@meelectricity.com
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