Energy demand to more than double: Middle East

Primary energy demand will more than double in the Mena region by 2030 and to meet this demand countries within the region will have to invest on an average $56 billion per year in energy infrastructure alone, according to the World Energy Organisation.

More efficient generation and use of energy top the agenda of governments throughout the Middle East, said Sarah Woodbridge, exhibition director, Middle East Electricity yesterday.

Speaking at the launch of the exhibition, which is to kick off on February 5, she said: “Having recognised that the huge energy demands they face today is only the tip of the iceberg, they are investing billions of dollars into energy related projects, and this is where the real business is done.”

A combination of incredibly rapid population growth plus the expansion of the commercial, industrial and manufacturing sectors such as the $1.25 billion Gulf Power Grid are designed to ensure greater power supply stability and eliminate the risk of blackouts.

“Over the last 30 years, the population of the Mena region has doubled to about 386 million, with the current growth level running at two per cent per year, which is equivalent to around seven million people per year,” she explained.

Khaleej Times