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Gulf power grid to include UAE by mid-2011
14 Dec 2010, Arabian Business
The UAE will be linked to the Gulf's power grid by mid -011, while links to Oman and Egypt are still under study, an official said on Tuesday. Gulf Arab countries last year completed the first phase of a regional power grid that they hope will help them meet rapidly rising regional demand and smooth out capacity at peak times to avoid power outages.
Jordan seeking bids for one or two nuclear plants
14 Dec 2010, Arabian Business
Jordan will seek proposals in early January for the construction and operation of as many as two nuclear power plants, the chairman of the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission said.
Saudi's SEC finalises $1.3bn loan
13 Dec 2010, Arabian Business
State controlled Saudi Electricity Co (SEC) said on Monday it finalised a murabaha Islamic financing worth $1.3bn with four local banks to finance projects inside the kingdom.
Abu Dhabi set for smart metering by April 2011
08 Dec 2010, AME Info
Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (Adwea) has said its smart metering programme is set for completion by April 2011, Meed has reported.
Egypt's nuclear ambition reignites
07 Dec 10, The National
Four years ago, Egypt announced it was to restart its nuclear power programme. The country's first nuclear plant, which is designed to produce 1,000 megawatts (mw) of power, will be located on the Mediterranean coast at El Dabaa. It is expected to be operational by 2019. If all goes to plan, seven other nuclear reactors will come on line by 2028.
After a bout of power cuts, Egypt looks to alternatives
07 Dec 10, The National
In the summer, during the heat of a sweltering Ramadan, a number of Cairo's elite experienced something of an unpleasant surprise: power cuts. The government's response to the power cuts was to reaffirm its commitment to building new power stations to increase capacity by 58 million mw over the next 17 years. Since the country has a limited supply of domestic hydrocarbons, it also repeated its pledge that renewable energy would contribute 20 per cent of the country's total power needs by 2020.
Saudi wants nuclear power soon - US official
06 Dec 10, AFP
Saudi Arabia plans to be producing nuclear power within 10 years, a senior US trade official said here Monday. "They want to have civil nuclear power as a part of their mix ... relatively soon," said Under Secretary of Commerce Francisco Sanchez, after meetings with Saudi officials.
Kuwait weighs nuclear future
05 Dec 10, The National
Kuwait has launched a feasibility study into nuclear power development with the aim of having one or two atomic plants in operation by 2020.
Close cooperation between UAE, IAEA on safe, secure nuclear energy programme
03 Dec 10, WAM
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is working closely with the United Arab Emirates on the establishment of a safe and secure nuclear programme, according to the Agency's Director General Yukiya Amano.
Lebanon electricity production up 5.8% - report
02 Dec 10, Arabian Business
Electricity production in Lebanon rose 5.8 percent in the first nine months of 2010, according to new figures from the Lebanese Central Bank.
GCC Power undersecretaries finalize 18-item draft to improve electricity
30 Nov 10, KUNA
Kuwaiti Undersecretary of Minister of Electricity and Water Ahmad Al-Jassar said Monday that the undersecretaries of Electricity in GCC countries have finalized an 18-items draft crafted particularly for improving energy services and ready to be submitted to GCC ministers for final approval tomorrow.
Kuwait to spend $21bn on power, water
29 Nov 10, Trade Arabia
Kuwait's electricity ministry will spend KD6 billion ($21.3 billion) in the next four years for electricity and water projects, Mohamed Boshehri, director of planning and power station projects at the ministry told reporters on Monday.
UAE has successfully diversified its economy
29 Nov 10, Khaleej Times
The UAE has successfully diversified its economy with 71% of the national gross domestic product coming from non-oil sectors in 2009, Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, UAE Minister of Economy said.
Project awarded to Al fanar Construction by the Saudi Electricity Company for substations
28 Nov 10, AME Info
Alfanar Construction and Saudi Electricity Company sign contract for the construction of the new Al-Jouf 380kV Substation and the expansion of the existing 380kV Hail Substation.
UAE expects 3% growth as economy gets back on track
28 Nov 10, Gulf News
The UAE, the second biggest Arab economy, is expected to achieve 3 per cent to 3.5 percent growth in 2011, said a top government official.
Oman approves $150mln publically funded projects
24 Nov 10, Arabian Business
Oman’s tender board has approved another $150m in publically funded projects The new projects include the upgrade of the Jahlout Power Plant to 220/132 KV and the associated transmission line 220 KV ($47m).
Saudi Arabia, Egypt to link power grid by 2013
24 Nov 10, Arabian Business
Construction of a power grid linking Saudi Arabia and Egypt will be completed in 2013, the Saudi Press Agency reported late Tuesday, citing Minister of Water and Electricity Abdullah al- Hussayen.
UAE, UK sign nuclear cooperation agreement
25 Nov 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The UAE and the United Kingdom (UK) have signed a Nuclear Cooperation Agreement. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE and Foreign Secretary of the UK William Hague signed the agreement at a ceremony at the Emirates Palace hotel, Abu Dhabi.
Egypt, Saudi To Start Sea Survey For Power Grid Next Week - Official
23 Nov 10, Dow Jones
A marine survey to map a route for a project linking the power grids of Egypt and Saudi Arabia will start next week and last for about 20 days, the electricity minister of the North African country said Sunday. An international tender for work on the project, which is expected to cost about $1.5 billion, is scheduled for early next year, Egypt's Hassan Younes said, according to the official Saudi Press Agency, or SPA.
UAE and UK trade grows Dh22billion in 2010
23 Nov 10, The National
Trade between the UAE and the UK advanced to more than Dh22 billion (US$6.2bn) in the first nine months of the year, providing a boost to a goal of significantly ramping up business links between the two countries by 2015.
Saudi Aramco said to seek partners to build three power stations
22 Nov 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest state owned oil company, is seeking partners to help build three power plants for its expanding refining and chemicals businesses.
India's non-oil trade with UAE rises 57% in first half
21 Nov 10, Arabian Business
Non-oil trade between the UAE and India reached $20.4bn in the first half of the year, up 57 percent from the same period of 2009.
Abu Dhabi will raise foreign investment to 23% of GDP
21 Nov 10, Gulf News
Abu Dhabi plans to raise foreign direct investment to 23 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030 and to increase direct investment growth by 9 per cent per year, according to the Annual Economic Report for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi 2010, released Saturday by the Department of Econ-omic Development (DED).
Abu Dhabi a key Gulf player
21 Nov 10, Khaleej Times
The Abu Dhabi economy plays a pivotal role in the Gulf region as the emirate provides multiple investment opportunities, an official report said. The UAE capital attracts investors in the fields of industry, real estate, infrastructure and alternative energy sources.
Tehran, Baku ink energy, transport MOUs
21 Nov 10, Tehran Times
Iran and Azerbaijan signed two memorandums of understanding on gas supplies and electricity swaps, and transportation on Wednesday.
UAE to cooperate with Turkmenistan
19 Nov 10, Gulf News
UAE Energy Minister Mohammad Bin Dha'en Al Hameli held meetings with senior Turkmen officials yesterday to discuss venues of cooperation between the two countries on energy.
Public asked to comment on nuclear rules
15 Nov 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (Fanr), the UAE's independent regulator for nuclear sector, seeks public comments on the draft regulation, Design of Nuclear Facilities. The draft regulation has already been made available to local and federal government entities for their feedback.
Egypt to issue tender for first nuclear plant by year-end
14 Nov 10, Arabian Business
Egypt is set to offer an international tender for its first nuclear power plant in El-Debaa, the country’s Minister of Electricity and Energy has said.
Abu Dhabi economy to be $400bn
14 Nov 10, Emirates Business 24/7
Abu Dhabi aims to boost its economy to nearly $400 billion in 2030 as part of its long-term development strategy focusing on attracting foreign capital and expand the private sector, according to a senior official.
UAE's non-oil trade rises to Dh477b
14 Nov 10, Gulf News
The UAE's non-oil foreign trade in the first eight months of 2010 reached Dh477.6 billion, an increase of 9.45 per cent compared to Dh436.4 billion in the first eight months of 2009, according to a statement by the Federal Customs Authority (FCA).
Saudi company signs new power deals
10 Nov 10, Gulf News
Saudi Arabia's Saline Water Conversion Corp, or SWCC, said yesterday it signed two contracts worth more than 15.6 billion Saudi riyals (Dh15.2 billion) for a new power plant at Ras Al Zour on the Arabian Gulf that will feature the world's biggest desalination facility.
GCC to invest $272bn in energy through 2015
08 Nov 10, Arabian Business
Gulf Cooperation Council countries will invest a combined $272bn in energy through 2015, Majid Al Moneef, a member of the economic and energy committee of Saudi Arabia’s consultative assembly, said on Monday.
Saudi Arabia seeks $500bn investment says body
08 Nov 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil supplier, has $500 billion in investment opportunities in energy, transportation and education, according to the state-run body that promotes investments. There is $300 billion in investment opportunities from now until 2020 for the energy industry, including petrochemicals, minerals, power and water, he said.
ABB wins $24m transformer order in Kuwait
08 Nov 10, AME Info
ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has won an order worth $24m from the Ministry of Electricity and Water in Kuwait to supply over 700 dry-type transformers to the country's national power and water utility. The order was booked in the third quarter.
SR143billion contract to expand Qassim power plant
08 Nov 10, Arab News
Saudi Electricity Company signed a contract worth SR1.43 billion to expand the electricity power generation plant in Qassim to meet the growing demand for energy in the province.
Saudi Electricity sets deadline for new plant bid
06 Nov 10, Trade Arabia
State-controlled Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) has set February 28 as a deadline for companies to bid for the gas-fired al-Qurayyah power plant, a company executive said on Saturday.
Jordan, Turkey close to nuclear cooperation deal
05 Nov 10, Jordan Times
Jordan is nearing a nuclear cooperation pact with Turkey, a senior energy official said on Thursday. According to Jordan Atomic Energy Commission (JAEC) Chairman Khaled Toukan, the Kingdom has finalised a draft nuclear cooperation agreement (NCA) with Ankara, which paves the way for expertise exchange and technology transfer between the two countries.
Egypt, World Bank sign power project accords
04 Nov 10, AFP
Egypt and the World Bank on Thursday signed two new loan agreements worth 820 million dollars, in the largest financing provided by the institution to the country's electricity sector.
Kuwait Sets Deadline For Bidding For Zour North Plant Tender - Report
02 Nov 10, Dow Jones
The deadline for submission of bids for Kuwait's Al Zour North water and power plant project falls immediately after Eid Al Adha's holiday, Kuwait-based Al Watan daily reports Tuesday citing an official.
Gulf GDP set to more than double next decade
31 Oct 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The GCC economy will more than double to reach $2.3 trillion during the next decade with non-oil sector growing faster than the hydrocarbon sector, according to the latest study by Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
Non-oil GCC growth to average 5% per year
31 Oct 10, Trade Arabia
Non-oil growth is forecast to average 5.1 per cent per year, much higher than the 3.3 per cent annual average growth expected in the oil and gas sector
Emaar Middle East signs two agreements with Saudi Electricity Company for power supply infrastructure
30 Oct 10, AME Info
Emaar Middle East, a subsidiary of global property developer Emaar Properties PJSC, has signed two agreements with the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) to integrate to the power supply infrastructure in Jeddah Gate and Al Khobar Lakes - the flagship master-planned communities developed by the company.
Iran Will Build a 1000MW Gas Power Plant
28 Oct 10, Iran Daily
In a bid to achieve self-sufficiency, Iran will inaugurate a 1,000-megawatt gas power plant to meet the country's growing electricity demand.
Kuwait power capacity to rise to 17,500MW by 2014
26 Oct 10, AME Info
Kuwaiti minister of electricity and water, Badr al-Shuraian has said the country's electrical power capacity is to rise to 17,500MW from the current 12,000 MW by 2014
Kuwait extends power plant bids deadline
25 Oct 10, AME Info
The deadline for bids to expand an existing power plant at Al-Zour South has been pushed back to November 9 by Kuwait's electricity and water ministry, Meed has reported. The winning bidder will convert phase two of the existing simple cycle gas-fired project into a combined cycle plant on a design, build and operate basis.
Saudi, Russia in talks over nuclear deal - report
25 Oct 10, Arabian Business
Top oil exporter Saudi Arabia will hold talks with Russia over a potential draft nuclear agreement, Saudi state media said on Monday.
IDB signs $120m loan deal with Egypt
24 Oct 10, Gulf News
The Islamic Development Bank Group (IDB) and the Egyptian government recently signed three deals in Cairo under which the Jeddah-based bank will offer financial services amounting to $120 million (Dh440 million) to Egypt.
Saudi Electricity reports Q3 profit rise
20 Oct 10, AME Info
Saudi Electricity (SEC), the Gulf's largest utility by market value, has recorded a better-thanexpected 34% rise in net profit during Q3
Kuwait's Kharafi to build two power plants in Egypt
19 Oct 10, Arabian Business
Egypt's Electricity Ministry will sign a deal in days with Kuwait's Kharafi Group to build two power plants in Egypt with a combined capacity of 1,000 megawatts, a spokesman for the ministry said on Tuesday.
KEPCO wins $1.5bn plant order for UAE
19 Oct 10, AME Info
Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority has awarded a consortium between Korea Electric Power Corp (Kepco) and Japan's Sumitomo Corp a $1.5bn deal to build and operate a power plant in Shuweihat, 260 kilometres west of the capital Abu Dhabi by March 2014
Sumitomo, Kepco win rights for Abu Dhabi power plant
18 Oct 10, Arabian Business
Sumitomo Corp. and Korea Electric Power Corp. won priority negotiation rights for the construction and operations of a power plant in the UAE.
UAE to be in GCC power grid before year end
05 Oct 10, Gulf News
The UAE will be fully integrated into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) power grid by the end of the year, an official said Monday
GE signs nearly $700m agreements for new high efficiency power plant in Saudi Arabia
05 Oct 10, AME Info
GE has signed agreements worth approximately $700m to supply power generation equipment and long-term services for a new gas-fired, independent power plant that will help Saudi Arabia the Middle East's largest economy, meet a growing need for residential and industrial power.
Reactor schedule one of the quickest
04 Oct 10, The National
If the first nuclear power plant begins generating electricity in Abu Dhabi about seven years from now, as planned, the project will be notable as the first nuclear generation plant in the Arab world, but also as one of the fastest built anywhere in the world.
Saudi Arabia seeks private investment in power, water plants
03 Oct 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Arabia, the Arab world’s biggest economy, is seeking private sector investment to help meet growing demand for power and water and reduce subsidy costs to the government, the industry’s regulator said.
Lebanon welcomes Iranian investment in energy, water sectors
03 Oct 10, IRNA
Lebanese Energy and Water Minister Jamil Bassil welcomed Iranian investment in various sectors of his country. Talking to reporters after a meeting with Iran's Energy Minister Majid Namjoo, he said that Iran is determined to help solve Lebanon's problems in the field of energy.
World Bank loan for Iraq's power sector
03 Oct 10, Aswat al-Iraq
A second batch of a World Bank loan to Iraq, to exceed $741 millions, would be allocated for the improvement of the country's electricity sector, an Iraqi academician and economist said on Sunday.
GCC considers connecting rest of Arab world to power grid
29 Sep 10, AME Info
GCC states are considering the possibility of linking the rest of the Arab world to their regional electricity grid which is expected to be operational by next year
New Rabigh Power Plant To Meet Growing Power Demand of Makkah and Madinah Provinces
29 Sep 10, Saudi Press Agency
The new 2,555-megawatt Rabigh power plant will help the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) meet the growing power demand in the provinces of Makkah and Madinah, said Ali Al-Barrak, CEO of the company.
Saudi Arabia, France nuclear pact ahead
28 Sep 10, Gulf News
France is endeavouring to claim a stake in the Saudi nuclear sector to get its share of billions of dollars the six GCC countries are spending on reactors to produce nuclear energy for peaceful purposes
Jordan expects US nuclear deal
28 Sep 10, The National
Jordan expects to reach a compromise with the US on its nuclear power plans by the end of the year, paving the way for the award of a reactor construction contract several months later, a senior official said yesterday.
Doosan begins work on Rabigh power plant
25 Sep 10, AME Info
The Saudi Electricity Co (SEC) has announced that work has begun on a power plant in Rabigh, 150 km northwest of Jeddah, after it has awarded the SR12.7bn contract to South Korea's Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction
UAE gets seat on IAEA board
23 Sep 10, Gulf News
The UAE's bid for a seat in the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) board of governors had been approved.
UAE needs Dh80bn for power sector
22 Sep 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The UAE needs to invest around Dh80 billion in projects in the next eight years to expand its power generation capacity to meet a rapid rise in consumption, a government official was quoted on Wednesday as saying.
UAE's GDP to exceed Dh1trillion in 2010
22 Sep 10, Gulf News
The value of goods and services produced in the United Arab Emirates this year is expected to exceed Dh1 trillion, Ahmad Humaid Al Tayer, governor of the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) told reporters on Wednesday.
UAE's nuclear programme to boost power grid
22 Sep 10, Gulf News
The United Arab Emirates is developing its peaceful nuclear energy programme to address the increasing domestic demand in electricity.
Kuwait, Russia agree on nuclear cooperation
21 Sep 10, Khaleej Times
Kuwait and Russia have signed a memorandum of cooperation for peaceful use of nuclear energy generation in the Gulf Arab state, Kuwait’s state news agency KUNA reported, following similar deals with Japan and France.
Jordan: Power cuts behind water supply disruptions
21 Sep 10, Jordan Times
The Zara-Maeen Water Treatment Plant, which supplies Amman with a quarter of its drinking water, witnessed five power outages over the past four months that disrupted the water distribution programme, officials said on Sunday.
GDF Suez partners get financing for Oman power plans
20 Sep 10, Arabian Business
GDF Suez SA and its partners including Shikoku Electric Power Co and Sojitz Corp. completed $1.3bn in financing for the Barka 3 and Sohar 2 independent power projects in Oman.
Growing Bahrain
20 Sep 10, Arabian Business
Bahrain is in need of new sources of power as well as upgraded and new power networks as it strives to meet the demands placed on by a growing economy and expanding population. This was made abundantly clear in July, when energy consumption reached a record 2,650MW
Saudi's electricity capacity increased 31.4% in 2009
19 Sep 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Arabia’s electricity capacity increased by 31.4 percent in 2009, compared to the previous year, according to the latest report by Saudi Electricity Company.
UAE federal spending grows 7% in 10 years
19 Sep 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The UAE's federal expenditure has grown by around seven per cent annually over the past 10 years and the bulk of the increase was after 2005, when oil prices began their rapid rise, according to government data.
Siemens, GS consortium win $1.3bn order for IPPs
18 Sep 10, Oman Daily Observer
German industrial and technology giant Siemens AG together with Korean engineering firm GS Engineering & Construction have bagged an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract worth $1.3 billion to build the Barka-3 and Sohar-2 Independent Power Projects (IPPs), a number of news agencies reported at the weekend.
Saudi awards $2.44bn power plant deal
17 Sep 10, Arabian Business
Saudi state owned Saline Water Conversion Corp (SWCC) has awarded a $2.44 billion power plant contract to a group led by Saudi Arabia's Al Arrab Contracting Co, an industry source said on Tuesday.
Pakistan gets first part of power plant gifted by UAE
16 Sep 10, Arabian Business
The first component of a 320MW dual fuel power plant gifted by the UAE has arrived in Pakistan, with the entire plant expected to be delivered by the end of October.
Jordan, Japan ink nuclear cooperation agreement
12 Sep 10, AME Info
Jordan has signed an agreement with Japan on civilian nuclear energy cooperation paving the way for the Asian nation to build a nuclear reactor in the kingdom
UAE economy expected to rise to 272bn in 2010
12 Sep 10, Arabian Business
A report by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has said that the UAE economy will be boosted to a record high of nearly $272.2 billion due to higher oil prices.It is expected that the level will swell further in 2011.
Al Arrab, Sepco III to begin power plant works after Eid
11 Sep 10, Arabian Business
A Saudi Sino group of Al Arrab Contracting and SepcoIII Electric Power Construction Corp will start building a 2,750 megawatt power plant in Ras Al Zour on the Arabian Gulf this month, the Riyadh based company said.
Kuwait plans to build four nuclear reactors
10 Sep 10, Arabian Business
Kuwait, the fifth biggest oil producer among OPEC members, plans to build four nuclear power reactors by 2022, joining a drive for atomic energy among Gulf countries seeking alternative sources of electricity.
Japan, Kuwait agree nuclear energy cooperation
08 Sep 10, Arabian Business
Japan agreed with Kuwait on Wednesday to cooperate in capacity building for peaceful use of nuclear energy generation in the Gulf nation, raising the prospect of lucrative deals for Japanese companies.
Iran and UAE to link their electricity power grids
06 Sep 10, Arabian Business
Iran has connected its electricity grid to seven neighbouring countries and also plans to link up with the UAE’s grid, the Iranian energy minister said on Sunday.
Jordan invites bids for power project
06 Sep 10, AME Info
Jordan's National Electric Power Co (Nepco) has issued a request for qualification (RFQ) to developers to build an independent power project (IPP) on a build-own-operate (BOO) basis at the capital, Amman
Sepco III and Al Arrab win Ras al Zour contract
06 Sep 10, AME Info
Saudi Arabia's Saline Water Conversion Corp (SWCC) has awarded Al-Arrab Contracting Co (ACC) and its Chinese partner Sepco III Electric Power Construction Corp the $2.42bn contract to build the electricity generation component of the Ras al-Zour power and water project
UAE nuclear reactor work to start in December
05 Sep 10, Emirates Business 24/7
Work on the UAE’s $20-billion four nuclear reactors will start in December this year, according to the Korean consortium which won the deal last year.
UAE gets over $73bn in foreign direct investment
04 Sep 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The UAE has attracted more than $73 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) since it was created nearly four decades ago to emerge as the second top capital recipient in the region, according to UN statistics.
UAE achieves Dh2.2bn trade surplus with India
04 Sep 10, Emirates Business 24/7
A report released by the Ministry of Foreign Trade on the commercial and investment ties between the UAE and India has revealed a positive shift from a deficit during the first quarter of 2009 worth around Dh7.3 billion to a surplus in the UAE's favour during the first quarter of 2010 worth Dh2.2bn.
Doosan to build world's biggest desal plant in Saudi
01 Sep 10, Arabian Business
South Korean firm Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction has won a $1.46bn deal to build the Ras Al Zour water desalination plant, set to be the world’s biggest. The plant, on Saudi Arabia’s Gulf coast, will provide drinking water to the capital Riyadh via a vast water transmission system, and will produce one million tonnes a day. The integrated facility – worth an estimated $5.5bn – will also provide 2,400 megawatts of power
Oman: Sur transmission line work to start soon
30 Aug 10, Times of Oman
Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC) has started initial work for setting up a transmission line linked to the development of the first phase of a large independent power project (IPP) in Sur.
Egypt To Add 1425MW Of Electricity To Grid In Sep Report
30 Aug 10, Aswat al-Iraq
Egypt plans to add about 1,425 megawatts of electricity to its national grid next month from a number of new power generation units, pan-Arab Asharq Al Aswat daily reports Monday citing Hassan Younis, the country's minister of electricity and energy. The additional quantities will include 140 MW from solar energy stations and 60 MW from wind farms, Younis said according to the paper.
Oman: Tender for Sur power project by year end
29 Aug 10, Times of Oman
Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP) is expected to float an initial tender linked to the development of the planned 1,500MW independent power project in Sur before the end of this year.
Egypt power cuts deepen suffering in fasting month
29 Aug 10, Jordan Times
Since Muslims began their daily dawn-to-dusk fast for the holy month of Ramadan two weeks ago, Egypt has been hit by its worst power outages in decades.
Saudi Elec Adds 2,615MW To Generation Capacity in 1H Report
28 Aug 10, Dow Jones
The mainly state-owned utility Saudi Electricity Co. or SEC, said it has been able to add 2,615 megawatts of electric power to its power generation capacity in the first half of 2010 bringing its effective capacity to 40,496 MW, Saudibased Al Riyadh daily says Saturday citing a SEC's report.
Kingdom, Japan nearing nuclear deal
27 Aug 10, Jordan Times
Jordan and Japan are set to sign a nuclear cooperation agreement (NCA) “very soon”, a senior government official said. According to Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Jafar Hassan, the two sides are in close negotiations and expect to sign an NCA “within weeks”.
Egypt confirms site of first $4bn nuclear plant
26 Aug 10, Arabian Business
El-Debaa, on Egypt’s Mediterranean Sea coast, will play host to the country’s first nuclear power plant, which is scheduled to begin operations in 2019. The country’s electricity minister, Hassan Younis, had earlier estimated that a 1,000MW plant would cost $4bn.
Jordan: Irani highlights Samra, Qatraneh plants
26 Aug 10, Jordan Times
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Khalid Irani on Wednesday said the Samra and Qatraneh power plants, which will become operational next year, will provide the Kingdom with around 700 megawatts.
Bahrain: Power consumption hits all-time high
26 Aug 10, Bahrain Tribune
Consumption peaked at 3pm topping the previous highest consumption rate of 2,677 megawatts which was recorded on July 13, 2009.
Egypt announces site of planned nuclear plant
25 Aug 10, AFP
Egypt announced on Wednesday it would build its planned nuclear powerplant on the Mediterranean coast of el-Dabaa, the state news agency MENA reported.
UAE nuclear energy programme very safe
24 Aug 10, Gulf News
The UAE's civilian nuclear energy programme upholds the highest standards of safety, security, non-proliferation and operational transparency, the nation's Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) said on Tuesday.
Yemen warned to spend $5bn on power sector
24 Aug 10, Arabian Business
Yemen will need to spend another $5bn on the development of its electricity sector over the next eight years, a consultancy has warned the country.
Jeddah residents endure 10 hour blackouts
24 Aug 10, Arabian Business
Residents in northern Jeddah have called on the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) to find a solution to the electricity power cuts in the kingdom after residents in northern Jeddah were left without power for ten hours on Sunday and Monday, it was reported.
After long wait, Egypt sets nuclear deadline
24 Aug 10, The National
Fifty-five years after Egypt first announced its plan to build a nuclear power plant, energy authorities said this month they expect to launch an international tender for the project by the end of this year.
UAE and US sign deal on nuclear power
23 Aug 10, Gulf News
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) of the United States have signed an agreement for the exchange of technical information and cooperation in "nuclear safety, security and safeguarding matters" at the NRC's headquarters in Washington, DC.
Kuwait committee quietly formulating nuclear plans
23 Aug 10, The National
While the UAE has charged ahead with its nuclear energy programme and Egypt and Jordan are not far behind, another Arab country is quietly putting in place the framework to make it the region’s fourth nuclear-powered state.
Jordan: New grid projects to reduce power cuts
23 Aug 10, Jordan Times
Projects will soon be implemented to increase the capacity of the Kingdom's electricity grid and address the issue of power shortages, officials said on Sunday.
Saudi Electricity approves $3.92bn worth projects
23 Aug 10, Arabian Business
State-controlled Saudi Electricity Co (SEC) on Monday said it approved the award of 14.7 billion riyals worth ($3.92 billion) of power projects to meet rising demand.
Saudi national grid now covers 95% of kingdom
22 Aug 10, Arabian Business
The Saudi Electric Company has completed linking transmission lines in most of the Kingdom, Minister of Water and Electricity Abdullah Abdul Rahman Al-Hussayen said in a statement to the Saudi Press Agency on Friday.
Work begins on our nuclear future
21 Aug 10, Gulf News
Located hundreds of kilometres from the capital and other major population centres, Braka will soon become the centre of the UAE’s nuclear power programme, an ambitious, wide-ranging effort that has been held up as the “gold standard” for the development of peaceful nuclear power.
UAE nominal economy to rise 8% in 2010
21 Aug 10, Emirates Business 24/7
Higher oil prices will boost the UAE economy by around eight per cent in current prices this year after it plunged by more than 11 per cent in 2009 because of a sharp fall in crude prices, according to a Saudi investment firm.
Oman: Barka, Sohar to get major power push
17 Aug 10, Menafn
Several agreements for developing two green field independent power projects in Batinah region have been signed by Kahrabel GDF Suez-led consortium with various government agencies, paving the way for fast development.
GCC-wide nuclear study completed
15 Aug 10, Arabian Business
The results of a study into Gulf countries’ ability to manage any potential radiation disaster will be presented to GCC ministers in the coming weeks, it was reported on Sunday.
$294m tourism project planned for Yanbu seafront
15 Aug 10, Arabian Business
The basic infrastructure designs for five projects to develop the Yanbu seafront in Saudi Arabia have been completed, according to KSA’s Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu. The projects, worth more than SR1.1bn (US$294m), are set to be developed along the 11km seafront as part of the country’s wider strategy to expand its tourism market and diversify its economy. Construction works for the projects, which is aimed to drive more visitors, will include installation of a sewage system, water tanks, an electricity network and the lighting of roads in 13 separate areas.
Saudi power generation to jump 64.9% till 2019
12 Aug 10, Saudi Gazette
Electricity generation in Saudi Arabia is forecast to increase 64.9 percent between 2010 and 2019, which is near the middle of the range for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.
Kuwait: Al Sabbiyah power station to operate next year - official
09 Aug 10, KUNA
Minister of Electricity and Water Bader Al-Shuraiaan affirmed on Monday that the new Al- Sabbiyah power station would be operational next year, after installment of all gas turbines.
Egypt to issue nuclear power tender this year
08 Aug 10, AME Info
Egypt's electricity and energy minister, Hassan Younes has said the country plans to start an international bidding process this year for its first nuclear energy plant. "Egypt's nuclear project is progressing steadily and we expect to start the tender before the end of this year," Younes was quoted as saying by state-owned al-Ahram newspaper.
Oman Power sector set for major leap
07 Aug 10, Times of Oman
The Sultanate’s power sector has achieved tremendous growth on various fronts, including power generation, distribution network and number of consumers, said a top-level official of the state-owned Muscat Electricity Distribution Company (MEDC).
First phase of Ras Laffan power plant complete
02 Aug 2010, AME Info
Qatar's Ras Girtas Power Co (RGPC) has announced the completion of the first phase of the Ras Laffan C power and water project, Gulf Times has reported.
Saudi Electricity Inks SAR223M Deal To Boost Riyadh Grid - Report
31 Jul 10, Dow Jones
Saudi Electricity Co. has signed a 223 million Saudi riyals ($59.46 million) deal with a local contractor to boost the capacity of its network in Riyadh to cope with extra loads there, Jeddah-based Okaz daily reports Saturday citing an executive.
Qatar boosts power capacity with start of Ras Girtas
30 Jul 10, Arabian Business
Qatar, holder of the world’s third- largest natural gas reserves, increased its power-generating capacity by 1,833 megawatts with the completion of the first phase of Ras Laffan C, the country’s biggest power project.
Saudi needs $80bn power spend by 2018 - study
29 Jul 10, Arabian Business
About $80bn worth of investment is needed in Saudi Arabia by 2018 to meet rising power demands in the kingdom, a new report has said.
Iran's electricity consumption up 9.5% early summer
27 Jul 10, IRNA
Deputy energy minister said here on Monday that Iran's electricity consumption increased by 9.5 percent late July due to the worst heat wave sweeping the country in the first month of the summer season.
Jordan, S Korea sign $70m nuclear research reactor loan
26 Jul 10, AME Info
Jordan and South Korean are to sign a $70m loan agreement to finance a proposed research nuclear reactor at the Jordan University for Science and Technology, Petra news agency has reported. The proposed reactor is part of the country's efforts to establish a nuclear program to desalinate water, generate electricity and turn the kingdom into an energy exporter by 2030.
UAE's non-oil trade surges to Dh59.6b
26 Jul 10, Gulf News
The primary statistical data of the Federal Customs Authority confirmed the growth of the UAE's non-oil trade volume by a rate of 14 per cent by the end of May 2010 compared with the same period in 2009, as the total trade rose from Dh52.08 billion to Dh59.6 billion.
Saudi Needs To Invest $140B On Elec Projects In 10 Yrs - Govt
25 Jul 10, Dow Jones
Saudi Arabia, the Arab World’s largest economy, needs to spend 526 billion Saudi riyals ($140.3 billion_) on electricity projects over the next decade to meet the fast growing demand in the kingdom, the Electricity and Co- Generation Regulatory Authority, or ECRA, said Sunday.
Qatar Electricity second quarter profit advances 16%
24 Jul 10, Arabian Business
Qatar Electricity & Water Co, the second-largest utility in the Middle East by market capitalisation, announced a second-quarter profit of QR314.7m ($86.5m), beating analyst estimates.
Egypt, Saudi power grid link to cost $1.5bn
22 Jul 10, AME Info
Egypt's electricity ministry has said that linking the country's power grid with Saudi Arabia to help meet peak-time demand is expected to cost about $1.5bn, Reuters has reported. The two countries will split the cost of the project, which aims to exchange 3,000 megawatts of electricity between the countries through direct current electrical lines
Bahrain: 16 new substations to be built
22 Jul 10, Bahrain Tribune
The Kingdom yesterday signed three contracts worth almost BD14.6 million for the building of 16 substations and the enhancing of the water network.
GCCIA implements 1st component of GCC Grid Phase III
21 Jul 10, Saudi Press Agency
The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority has commenced the implementation of the first components of Phase III of GCC Grid.
Egypt, Saudi power link cost seen at $1.5bn
21 Jul 10, Trade Arabia
A project aimed at linking the power grids of electricity-hungry countries Egypt and Saudi Arabia to help meet peak-time demand is expected to cost about $1.5 billion, an Egyptian official said on Wednesday.
Siemens wins main electrical contract for NGL plant
21 Jul 10, AME Info
A joint venture between Petrofac and GS E&C has awarded Siemens Energy a $40m contract to engineer and supply an integrated power solution for a natural gas liquids (NGL) fractionation plant. As main electrical contractor (MEC) for the NGL fractionation plant, Siemens will provide power-and distribution transformers, high, medium and low voltage switchgears, and motor control centres.
Qatar seen leading GCC infrastructure push to 2014
21 Jul 10, Arabian Business
Qatar is on course to lead the region in terms of infrastructure projects in the short term despite a near-22 percent slump in its construction sector last year, a news report has said. BMI added that large infrastructure projects include the $9bn New Doha International Airport, the $7bn New Doha Port Projects, the $13bn Qatar-Bahrain Causeway, the $17bn development of a national rail network and a handful of power and water plants, including the largest power and water plant in the region.
First private CHP plant of Iran inaugurated
21 Jul 10, Tehran Times
Iran's first privately owned combined heat and power plant (CHP) officially came on stream in Tehran on Tuesday. The plant's production capacity is 7.8MW and its efficiency is 73 percent, the Islamic Republic of Iran News Network reported.
Gulf energy demand to soar 85% by 2030
20 Jul 10, Trade Arabia
Energy demand in the Gulf has more than doubled in the past 10 years and is forecast to increase by 85 per cent by 2030 compared with 2008 levels
Iraq: Investment project to supply Faw with electricity
20 Jul 10, Aswat al-Iraq
The Basra Provincial Council has approved an investment project that will supply the al-Faw district with electricity.
Siemens Energy secures Saudi deals worth $130m
20 Jul 10, Arabian Business
Siemens Energy has secured an order worth nearly $130m to supply gas turbine packages to Saudi Arabia. The components are to be installed in the Hail Extension II and Al Qurayat Expansion II power plants, the company said in a statement.
Sharjah fumes as power fails again
20 Jul 10, Gulf News
After a month's respite Sharjah's notorious power cuts are back again affecting the huge industrial districts which are home to thousands of families and businesses
Saudi Electricity Q2 net soars on lower costs
19 Jul 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Electricity Co posted a better than expected 50 percent rise in second quarter net profit on lower costs and higher revenues and further gains are expected after a rise in power tariffs for some users.
Oman Power, water company to initiate energy plant at Sur
19 Jul 10, Gulf News
Following a reassessment of a proposed independent power and water project at the Al Ghubrah site, the Oman Power and Water Company (OPWP) is preparing to initiate a competition for a major, 1,500 megawatt independent power project on the industrial estate at Sur.
Power fails again in Sharjah
18 Jul 10, Emirates Business 24/7
In a repeat of the May situation several areas went without power on Sunday. (SUPPLIED) Power failed in several parts of Sharjah Industrial Area on Sunday disrupting normal life and business. Several areas in the industrial area faced power failure from pam. More areas were subsequently affected.
ABB substation at Fujairah to strengthen UAE transmission network
18 Jul 10, AME Info
A new substation from ABB, the power and automation technology group, will serve the electricity needs of developments planned at Sudah port and the Al Hayl industrial areas of Fujairah, one of seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates.
SEC Launches Independent Power Plants Project Program
17 Jul 10, Saudi Press Agency
Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) has launched Independent Power Plants (IPP) program starting with three power plants in Rabigh, Riyadh and Qurayyah, which require an overall investment of around SR 21 Billion.
Egypt, Saudi Arabia ink $2.5m power grid deal
17 Jul 10, AME Info
Egyptian Electricity Minister Hassan Younes has said that Egypt and Saudi Arabia have signed a $2.5m contract with an unidentified company for work on linking their power grids
Bahrain: Electricity consumption hits all-time high
15 Jul 10, Bahrain Tribune
Electricity consumption peaked this week reaching an all-time record of 2,650 megawatts on Monday. As temperatures soared across Bahrain reaching highs in excess of 40 degrees Celsius, power consumption levels also increased to record highs with the Electricity and WaterAuthority confirming that consumption peaked on mMonday but the Kingdom's power grid was able to withstand this challenge and no major power outages were experience.
Saudi invites bidders to build $1.5bn power plant
14 Jul 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Arabian utility Marafiq has invited international firms to bid to build a $1.5 billion, 850 megawatt (MW) steam power plant in the Red Sea port of Yanbu, industry sources said on Wednesday.
Saudi Arabia: Shuqaiq increases power capacity
13 Jul 10, Arab News
To meet growing demand, Shuqaiq Water and Electricity Company (SqWEC) has added 680MWh of electricity to serve the provinces of Asir and Jazan, the company's chairman Madani A. Alagi announced on Sunday. "We were able to begin commercial operation of the project COD2 of the second electricity production unit with a capacity of 340 MWh, 36 days prior to the targeted deadline," Alagi said.
The heat is on for Kuwait
13 Jul 10, Arabian Business
For a country that holds around eight percent of global oil reserves, it may be difficult to believe that Kuwait faces domestic power concerns. Kuwaitis have been experiencing record temperatures in June, prompting power outages in a number of residential areas and bringing to light concerns over the country's pressing need for increased power generation capacity.
Gulf braces for power shortages
12 Jul 10, The National
The big heat has come early to the Gulf, and residents opting to stay are settling in for another summer of discontent punctuated by power cuts. All Gulf states except Qatar face electricity shortages that intensify during the airconditioning season. Already this year, the emirate of Sharjah as well as Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have suffered disruptions.
Jordan: Regulations governing nuclear safety to be ready by year-end
12 Jul 10, Jordan Times
The Jordan Nuclear Regulatory Commission (JNCR) on Sunday said it will finish drafting 26 regulations to govern nuclear safety in the Kingdom by the end of the year. JNRC Director Jamal Sharaf told The Jordan Times yesterday that the commission will present the regulations to the Cabinet by the end of the year, in order to have all regulatory frameworks related to securing and monitoring nuclear and radioactive materials in place.
JNRC seeking to expand staff
12 Jul 10, Jordan Times
The Jordan Nuclear Regulatory Commission (JNRC) is looking to boost its staff by 60 employees this year in order to enhance nuclear security in the Kingdom ahead of major milestones in the country’s peaceful nuclear power programme.
ENEC welcomes regulator's licence approvals
11 Jul 10, Arabian Business
The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation said on Sunday that it welcomed winning two licences from the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) for work related to Braka, its preferred site for the UAE's first nuclear power plants.
Second Electricity Production Unit Adds 340MWh to KSA Grid 36 Days Ahead of Schedule
11 Jul 10, Press Release
Dr. Madani A. Alagi, Chairman of Shuqaiq Water and Electricity Company (SqWEC) announced on Sunday 11/07/2010 the completion the commercial operation date (COD2) of the second electricity production unit of with capacity of 340 MWh 36 days before the planned deadline.
UAE's nuclear sector regulator issues two licences to ENEC
09 Jul 10, Arabian Business
Licences have been issued for the preparation of a remote site near the UAE-Saudi Arabian border to ready it for construction of a nuclear power facility.
Lebanon unveils $5b plan to overhaul power sector
08 Jul 10, Khaleej Times
Lebanon unveiled on Wednesday an ambitious $5 billion plan to overhaul its decaying power sector and provide it with 24-hour electricity in four years.
Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority to showcase efficiency and sustainability at Power Generation and Middle East Water show
06 Jul 10, AME Info
Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA) has agreed to support the Power Generation and Middle East Water show. The capital's utility provider is using the leading industry event as a platform to highlight their strategy for a efficient and sustainable power and water supply aligned with the Urban Planning Council's (UPC) 2030 vision.
Saudi readies French nuclear energy agreement
05 Jul 10, Arabian Business
Top oil exporter Saudi Arabia and France are preparing to sign an agreement on cooperation in civilian nuclear energy, Saudi state media said on Monday. Both countries have been in talks for more than one year but have yet to disclose details about the cooperation.
Doosan wins UAE's N-power contract
03 Jul 10, Khaleej Times
The UAE’s nuclear power programme crossed another milestone with its principal contractor Korea Electric Power Company (KEPCO) awarding a $3.9 billion contract to Doosan Heavy Industries to supply main equipment for four nuclear power reactors planned in the country.
Saudi awards $16m Ras Azzour contract
03 Jul 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Arabia awarded a 59.9 million riyal ($16 million) engineering contract to a consortium led by consultancy WS Atkins International on the Gulf coast in Ras Azzour, where a giant power plant will be built. The giant power and water project, estimated to cost $ billion, is expected to be the world’s largest when completed by the end of 2013.
$5bn power plant on way in Bahrain
01 Jul 10, Trade Arabia
A massive new power and water plant is now in the final stages of commissioning in Bahrain. Al Dur Power and Water Company chief executive Pierre Depauw said it would be up and running at some stage this summer and is being commissioned in co-ordination with the Electricity & Water Authority (EWA).
Higher GCC power tariffs needed to cool peak demand
01 Jul 10, Arabian Business
The Middle East’s electricity providers have been urged to introduce variable tariff schemes that charge consumers more for usage during peak hours in an effort to ease demand.
Oman: RO100m power transmission schemes
30 Jun 10, Oman Daily Observer
Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC) is investing in excess of RO 100 million in the development of new power transmission infrastructure aimed at meeting the rapidly escalating energy needs of the country. New grid stations, high voltage transmission lines and other networks are being added to OETC's grid at key places within the Main Interconnected System (MIS), which serves much of the northern half of the Sultanate.
47% urge more investment in GCC power grid - poll
30 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Almost 50 percent of people think more investment is needed in a GCC-wide electricity supply grid to help reduce power blackouts, the latest Arabian Business poll has found. A total of 47 percent of respondents said a region-wide energy grid was a “must” and that more investment in the plan was necessary.
ABB wins power substations order in Qatar
29 Jun 10, AME Info
ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has won an order to supply two new substations to the Ezdan Real Estate Company, one of Qatar's biggest property developers.
Kuwait: Privatization plan knocks on power sector door
29 Jun 10, Kuwait Times
The privatization law approved earlier by the National Assembly is also applicable to the power and electricity sector that has recently implemented many future projects. This vital field has been undergoing a lot ofpressure to cater to the huge demand and limited supply, taking into consideration the limited number of power plants in the country.
UAE exploring options on handling N-waste
27 Jun 10, Khaleej Times
The UAE is not intending to domestically reprocess the spent fuel from the nuclear reactors to be set up in the country, Hamad Ali Al Kaabi, the permanent representative of the UAE to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said here.
Kuwait govt discusses electricity, water consumption
27 Jun 10, Kuwait News Agency
The council of ministers discussed Sunday short-term measures taken by Ministry of Electricity and Water (MEW) to facing emergency increase in electricity consumption, as well as rationalizing of electricity and water consumption in industrial and commercial sectors, government buildings and private residences.
Bahrain investment in power to reduce blackouts
27 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Bahrain is investing more than BD340m ($901.7m) in the kingdom’s electricity network in a bid to reduce the number of power blackouts, it has been reported.
12% rise in Riyadh electricity demand - report
25 Jun 10, Arabian Business
The high temperatures in the west of Saudi Arabia recently put eight electricity generator unites temporarily out of action, according to a Saudi Gazette report. “The failure was caused by a hot sandstorm which hit the Jeddah region and the temperatures have greatly reduced the capabilities of generator plants,” Ali Al Barrak, the executive president of the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) said.
Iraq: 3rd unit of al-Kahlaa power plant starts operating next month
25 Jun 10, Aswat al-Iraq
The third unit of al-Kahlaa power plant in Missan will start operating as of next month at a capacity of 45 megawatt, the director of the plant said on Thursday.
Kuwait signs MoU with US on nuclear safeguards
24 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Kuwait has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the US on nuclear safeguards and other nonproliferation topics, the Qatar News Agency reported on Thursday.
Kuwait's power struggle
23 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Early summer has not been kind to Kuwait, or to its residents. Midday temperatures are already touching 55 degrees, and the record heat means that blackout season has started early in the emirate.
Additional ID300b for power network in Basra
23 Jun 10, Aswat al-Iraq
The Basra Provincial Council has allocated an additional ID300 billion to rehabilitate the power network in Basra. “This is a temporary and quick solution for the power problem in Basra,” the council’s head told Aswat al-Iraq news agency on Wednesday.
Power cuts hit Taif areas
23 Jun 10, Saudi Gazette
Power cuts that affected some villages and areas in the northeast of Taif on Monday afternoon, were caused by sandstorms and soaring temperatures which paralyzed some of the turbines at Al-Shu'aibah power generating station.
ID10 billion allocated to support electricity in Missan
22 Jun 10, Aswat al-Iraq
More than 10 billion dinars have been allocated to support the electricity system in Missan, governor said on Tuesday.
UN watchdog backs Egypt nuclear power plant plan
22 Jun 10, Gulf News
The UN nuclear watchdog is ready to cooperate with plans to build nuclear power plants in Egypt, which is now working on locations for construction, the head of the UN body said on Tuesday. Egypt said in March it planned to build four plants by 2025 and inaugurate the first in 2019 in an effort to reduce the most populous Arab country's reliance on oil and gas. Officials hope the programme would add capacity of up to 4,000 megawatts.
Summer heat causes blow outs in Saudi electric grid
22 Jun 10, Gulf News
Blistering summer temperatures coupled with a sandstorm caused power failures on Monday in the western region of Saudi Arabia, as the region suffered under a debilitating heat wave. The skyrocketing demand for electricity to power air conditioners forced eight power turbines to go off line causing several Saudi cities to lose their power, said the Saudi Electricity Company.
Kuwait's power worries to end next summer
20 Jun 10, Trade Arabia
Kuwait's vulnerability to power outages during scorching summer months should end next year when a new power station comes online, the minister of electricity and water said. “The Subbiya power plant will relieve Kuwait from the ghost of 99 percent, and next year we’ll get over the problem,” minister Badr Al-Shuraian told Kuwait’s parliament.
Kuwait pledges to tackle summer blackouts
20 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Kuwait said on Sunday that ending the country's power shortage and blackouts crisis was its number one priority. Addressing parliament's special session on the problem, Bader Al-Shreiaan, Minister of Electricity and Water, said the government would be tackling the issue from two angles. It would be putting in short-term measures to reduce power load during the summer, and would be looking to improve long-term power production, he said in comments published by KUNA News Agency.
Power cuts hit Saudis amid rising temperatures
18 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Power cuts were experienced in various regions across Saudi Arabia on Thursday as demand increased in response to the rise in temperatures, according to a report. “The power cuts have been mainly due to climatic conditions and the unusual rise in temperatures,” Abdul Salam Al- Yamani, vice chairman of the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) told the Saudi Gazette.
Abu Dhabi awards $24.5m power, water deals
17 Jun 10, Arabian Business
UK firm Mott MacDonald has been awarded power and water contracts worth AED90m ($24.5m) by Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC). The deals will cover consultancy work for power in both the Central and Western regions and for water in the Eastern region, according to a company statement released on Thursday.
SR7.9 billion power plant near Riyadh
16 Jun 10, Arab News
Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), the state-controlled power provider, has signed a contract with a consortium for SR7.9 billion to build a gas-fired power plant. The SEC will be committed to buy the electricity for 20years from the plant as per the provisions of the contract, said Ali Saleh Al-Barrak, SEC chief executive officer, speaking after signing of the power purchase agreement, here Tuesday.
Kuwait urges power conservation as temperatures soar
16 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Kuwait’s power consumption is close to overloading its grid as summer temperatures soar, said a top official who urged citizens to conserve power on Tuesday. Power consumption has reached “very dangerous” levels, Rodhan al Rodhan, minister of state for cabinet affairs, wasreported as saying by state news agency KUNA.
Iran: South Pars 1000MW power plant inaugurated
16 Jun 10, Tehran Times
A large power plant with 1,000 megawatts output was officially inaugurated on Tuesday in Assalouyeh, southern Iran, aiming to supply electricity to the refineries of South Pars gas field phases 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, and 18, the Islamic Republic of Iran News Network reported.
Hyundai signs $1.6 billion dollar Saudi power plant deal
16 Jun 10, AFP
South Korean construction firm Hyundai Heavy Industries said Wednesday it had signed a 1.6 billion dollar contract to build a power plant in Saudi Arabia. The company said in a statement it would complete the 1,729 megawatt gas-fired plant by 2013
SR457.6 Million Contract Signed for Expansion of Hail Electricity Station
15 Jun 10, Saudi Press Agency
Saudi Electricity Company signed here on Monday a contract worth SR 457.6 million with a national company to expand Hail electricity station with an additional capacity of 126 megawatts.
Jordan, Japan agree draft nuclear agreement
15 Jun 10, Jordan Times
Jordan and Japan on Tuesday agreed to the text and terms of a proposed nuclear cooperation agreement (NCA), paving the way for the Kingdom to import Japanese nuclear technology.
Nuclear development fires up
14 Jun 10, The National
Nuclear development is gaining momentum throughout the Middle East even as Iran’s programme captures the political spotlight. In the Arabian peninsula, a long-planned electricity network linking the six GCC nations is nearing completion, improving the economics of nuclear power.
UAE energy sector contracts triple to $8.8bn
14 Jun 10, Emirates Business
The value of total construction contracts awarded in the UAE in the energy sector almost tripled to $8.8 billion (Dh32.32bn) for the period of January to May this year from $3bn against the same period in 2009, according to Ventures Middle East, a project tracker and analysis provider
Nexans wins a 72.7 million euros high voltage cable contract in the Arabian Gulf
14 Jun 10, Press Release
Nexans, the worldwide leader in the cable industry, has been awarded a 72.7 million euros contract by the Abu Dhabi Transmission and Despatch Company (TRANSCO) for a turnkey project to upgrade the high voltage underground power cable infrastructure in Abu Dhabi City, UAE.
UAE economy to grow 4% in 2010, 2011 - top official
14 Jun 10, Arabian Business
The UAE economy will grow at a pace of around 4 percent in 2010 and 2011 on the back of big infrastructure projects, its central bank chief said on Monday.
Kuwait power consumption hits record as mercury soars
13 Jun 10, AFP
Electricity consumption in Kuwait hit an all-time record on Sunday as the temperature raced to a new high for the year in the oil-rich desert Gulf state. Power consumption peaked at 10,823 megawatts at noon, the highest on record, close to the maximum production capacity of around 11,200 megawatts, the electricity and water ministry showed on its website.
Kuwait govt discuss development projects
13 Jun 10, Kuwait News Agency
Deputy Premier for Economic Affairs Sheikh Ahmad Fahad Al-Sabah briefed the cabinet late Sunday night about government projects within the country's mega development plan. Sheikh Ahmad, also minister of state for development and minister of state for housing, briefed the cabinet about housing projects, building new hospitals and enlarging existing ones, health clinics, the new airport, power stations, highways, causeways, the Boubyan sea port, the development of Failaka Island, the Silk City and Sabah Al-Saleh University City.
UAE trade surplus set to rise 15% in 2010 - official
12 Jun 10, Arabian Business
The UAE's trade surplus for 2010 is expected to rise 15 percent from 2009, a foreign trade official said on Friday. The country's surplus stood at $16.1 billion last year.
Hitachi eyes Mideast as part of nuclear project plans
10 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Japanese technology giant Hitachi is aiming to build 13 nuclear power plants in the Middle East, India and Southeast Asia, the company has said. Masayuki Fukutomi, a spokesperson from the Hitachi Middle East branch said that the Japanese firm, which was the third largest technological company by revenue in 2009, is planning to build 150 nuclear power plants across the world by 2030.
GDF Suez, Sojitz in $2.1bln Saudi power joint venture
09 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Electricity said it has agreed to form a $2.1bn joint-venture that includes GDF Suez and Japan's Sojitz Corp to produce much needed electricity for the Kingdom. The state-controlled power utility holds a 50 percent stake in the Darmaa Power Co which will operate Riyadh 11 independent power plant, while GDF Suez, Sojitz and local Jomaih Holding Group together hold the remaining half, Saudi Electricity said.
Total, Abengoa to build UAE solar power plant
09 Jun 10, Arabian Business
France's Total, Spain's Abengoa and the UAE's Masdar will build a 100 megawatt concentrated solar power (CSP) plant southwest of Abu Dhabi, Masdar said in a statement on Wednesday. The CSP, named Shams 1, would be the largest in the world and would qualify for carbon credits under the United Nation's Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), Masdar said.
Saudi Arabia: Western, Southern Regions to be linked to unified electricity grid
09 Jun 10, Saudi Gazette
The Saudi Electricity Company is scheduled over the next few days to link the Western and Southern Regions to a unified power generating network.
Egypt: Ten companies qualify for public-private thermal power plant
08 Jun 10, Daily News Egypt
Ten local and foreign companies and consortiums, out of 19, have qualified for the establishment of the first thermal energy power plant in Egypt, with investments of $1.5 billion, under the BOO system, reported Al-Masry Al-Youm.
Oman: Consortium to build two power projects
08 Jun 10, Gulf News
Oman has awarded a $1.7 billion contract for the construction of two power projects to a consortium. The Barka 3 and Sohar 2 are greenfield natural gas-fired power plants with a capacity of 744 megawatts each
Power consumption levels highest in Kuwait history
08 Jun 10, Khaleej Times
The Ministry of Electricity and Water has been making a concerted effort these days to prevent a power crisis from occurring in the country. This is after power consumption levels shot up to highest in the history of Kuwait earlier this week. The inauguration of the first stage of the Subbiya plant next year will help the ministry tackle all the power overload in the summer of 2011. The first stage will add 1,300 megawatts to the country's power production levels
March on toward power self sufficiency
07 Jun 10, Arab News
Saudi Electricity Co. (SEC), which is majority state-owned, says its power generation capacity rose to almost 45,400 megawatts (MW) in the first quarter of 2010, up 76 percent from 25,800 MW in April 2000.
Iran: 10 Power Plants Go Private
07Jun 10, Iran Daily
Deputy head of Tavanir Company (governmental body under the Ministry of Energy focused on the generation, transmission and distribution of power in Iran) said construction of 10 power plants has been ceded to the private sector.
Saudi Arabia to implement new power tariffs - Jul 1
05 Jun 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Electricity will raise tariffs for government, commercial and industrial users as of July 1, which would add 3.2 billion riyals ($853.3 million) to its annual revenues and boost its profitability. This is the latest gesture from the government to help its state-controlled power utility cope with power demand growing at an annual 8 percent and requiring investments close to $80 billion in the ten years to 2018.
Kuwait: Fear of power outages as indicator nears maximum
03 Jun 10, Kuwait Times
Yesterday, the registered amount of electricity consumed reached close to a critical level. The consumption of energy reached about 9,750 Mega Watts yesterday, according to the Ministry of Electricity and Water's website. Such excessive consumption, experts observed, could threaten to cut power in certain areas.
UAE nuclear safety law to be tightened
03 Jun 10, Gulf News
A set of safety and security regulations, drafted on international practices, are to be added to the UAE's nuclear law by the end of this year.
Delegation of French companies from the nuclear energy sector to visit the UAE
02 Jun 10, AME Info
28 French companies will visit Abu Dhabi on 13th and 14th June, 2010 to showcase the French expertise in the civil nuclear field. The purpose of the visit is to take stock of nuclear market opportunities in the UAE, and to explore the potential for commercial and industrial cooperation between the two countries.
ABB wins $8.3m GCC power grid service deal
02 Jun 10, Trade Arabia
ABB, a leading power and automation technology group, has won a $8.3 million contract to provide maintenance for equipment and systems at the Gulf Interconnection Grid’s newly constructed substations.
Egypt raised $170mln loan from Kuwait for power plant
01 Jun 10, Daily News Egypt
Egypt raised a $170 million loan from the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development to help it build a 750 MW power plant north of Cairo, Reuters quoted an official at the Ministry of Electricity and Energy as saying. Egypt, which now has about 25,000 MW of electricity capacity, plans to add another 9,200 MW by 2012. It intends to spend $100-120 billion to triple capacity by 2027.
Energy a bane or a boon?
01 Jun 10, Gulf News
Utilisation of hydrogen energy to fulfil the UAE's energy needs would be one of the key measures that the country could undertake to achieve a sustainable development without major environmental consequences. Hydrogen can be produced from nuclear energy by means of steam methane reforming using nuclear energy for the endothermic heat of reaction, conventional electrolysis using nuclear generated electricity, thermo-chemical cycles for water splitting, hybrid cycles combining thermo-chemical and electrolytic steps or high temperature electrolysis using nuclear electricity and heat.