Energy shortfalls of up to 35% to hit the UAE by 2012

The power generating capacity of existing facilities in the MENASA region is inadequate and investments of at least US$ 155 billion will be required over the next decade to meet growing consumption, according to research by UAE-based infrastructure specialists, Septech Emirates.

According to the report, water and power shortages of approximately 35 per cent are expected in Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia by 2010, while the UAE and Bahrain will face similar problems by 2012 and 2013 respectively. This figure was reached after taking into account the current power capacity across the region and adding the projected 24 per cent which is under construction.


“Energy consumption is on the increase not only in the region but across the world,” said Ashruf Kamel, Vice President of Corporate Development at Septech Emirates. “Infact, global net electricity consumption is expected to increase by a whopping 42 per cent by 2015 and an additional 1600GW of power generating capacity is required to meet mounting demand.”

With the growing population and mega scale industrial and real estate developments, demand for power is estimated to rise considerably. Estimated investments in the private sector over the next decade are expected in excess of US$75 billion.

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