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The 20th edition of the “Gulf Electricity Conference 2024” officially kicked off today in the Kingdom of Bahrain, organized by the GCC Regional Committee for Electric Systems “GCC CIGRE,” in collaboration with the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA). The event was inaugurated in the presence of H.E. Eng. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohamed, President of the Electricity and Water Authority, alongside esteemed ministers, GCC country delegations, and representatives from leading international energy companies.

On this occasion, H.E. Eng. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohamed emphasized that hosting the 20th edition of the region’s leading annual “GCC CIGRE” conference reflects Bahrain’s active commitment to supporting sustainable development and advancing the energy sector. Held from November 11 to 13, the conference brings together global experts and decision-makers to engage in critical discussions and exchange knowledge to enhance the energy sector both regionally and globally.

He noted that Bahrain’s hosting of the conference aligns with the Kingdom’s vision to strengthen regional and international cooperation in the energy field. The conference will showcase the latest advancements in renewable energy and modern technologies, with a focus on strategies that support environmental and economic goals. He added that the discussions and insights presented during the event will contribute to Bahrain’s clean energy transition and sustainable resource management in line with its forward-looking vision for innovation and development.

This year’s conference focuses on key themes, challenges, and opportunities in developing this vital sector. Topics include global best practices, emerging technologies for enhancing electricity and energy efficiency, and promoting sustainability at both local and international levels. Additional areas of focus include system operation and control, system development and economics, electricity markets and regulation, distribution systems and substations, as well as specialized topics such as transformer design and performance, overhead lines and insulated cables, renewable and nuclear energy for the Gulf, smart grids, and energy systems asset management.

During a keynote panel held as part of the opening ceremony, H.E. Eng. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohamed, in conversation with Dr. Lawrence Jones, Senior Vice President of International Programs at the Edison Electric Institute (USA), outlined Bahrain’s plans to diversify energy sources. He highlighted the EWA’s renewable energy roadmap, which aims to increase the share of renewable energy to 20% by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

The session also addressed the EWA’s efforts to improve energy efficiency through the launch of the “Kafa’a” program in collaboration with energy service companies, targeting enhanced energy performance in public and private buildings. The program is expected to save approximately 975 GWh of electricity and reduce carbon emissions by around 488,000 tons by 2040.

He further discussed EWA’s gradual adoption of advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency in the energy sector, along with plans to replace aging plants with more efficient alternatives. He emphasized the importance of this transformation in supporting sustainability and reducing emissions, in line with the Kingdom’s ambitious climate objectives.

For his part, H.E. Eng. Ahmed Nasser Al-Nasser, Chairman of GCC CIGRE and Conference President, stated that GCC CIGRE plays a vital role in facilitating the exchange of expertise among energy professionals, enhancing both regional and global collaboration. “Our core mission is to improve energy systems by fostering cooperation between energy system experts and decision-makers around the world to drive innovation and enhance power systems,” he said. “This conference is a crucial platform for experience-sharing and constructive dialogue to meet the highest efficiency standards that support comprehensive development and future aspirations in sustainable energy.”

Also speaking at the event, H.E. Eng. Ahmed Ali Al Ibrahim, Chairman of the Technical Committee at GCC CIGRE, emphasized that the “Gulf Electricity Conference 2024” serves as the ideal platform for bringing together energy experts. The accompanying exhibition offers companies the opportunity to engage with the public, explore business opportunities, and enrich attendees’ knowledge through specialized scientific lectures. He noted that GCC countries are among the world’s largest energy consumers amid rising demand, and hydrocarbon resources continue to be in high demand as fuel and feedstock due to the expansion of energy-intensive industries. Hence, GCC CIGRE remains committed to supporting the sector’s development through impactful research and innovation to meet evolving needs.