Masdar announces winner of International Blogging Contest

Jan 8th, 2013
by Hachem Hachem.
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ABU DHABI: Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy company, on Monday announced the winner of its International Blogging Contest. Masdar initiated the competition to drive international discussion about the interconnected water and energy challenges facing communities around the world.

The contest received more than 70 entries and engaged thousands of readers as it sparked worldwide discussion of sustainability issues in advance of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), the largest gathering on sustainability in the history of the Middle East.

The winning post, entitled “Demystifying the Water-Energy Nexus,” was submitted by Dallas Blaney, a professor of public and environmental affairs at the University of Wisconsin in the United States. Blaney’s submission argued that a comprehensive approach is necessary to address the interrelated issues of water and energy, with a special emphasis on establishing a research agenda and advancing public awareness of water and energy challenges.

As the winner, Blaney will receive an invitation to attend ADSW as a guest journalist, where he will have the opportunity to cover the World Future Energy Summit and the International Water Summit.

“The sheer number and wide variety of posts submitted to Masdar’s blogging contest is a testament to the global relevance of the challenges of water and energy security,” said Omar Zaafrani, manager of communications strategy and planning at Masdar. “At Masdar, we believe dialogue and discussion are equally important as action, and we are proud that the contest amplified the global conversation about the relationship between energy production and water. This discussion will continue at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, where global leaders will identify ways to directly address these challenges,” he added.

The competition leveraged the power of the internet to engage readers around the world, generating thousands of votes over 17 days. The author whose entry received the most votes and generated the most social media activity was Lolita Galura Ranit, a science and environment teacher at Al Adhwa Private School in Al Ain, UAE.
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Posted in: Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, Energy, International Water Summit, Masdar, WFES, renewable energy.

UAE’s first-ever Green Jobs Fair at World Future Energy Summit 2013

Jan 6th, 2013
by Hachem Hachem.
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Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven, graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, announced that the first-ever Green Jobs Fair in the UAE will be held during the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2013.

Organized in collaboration with Reed Exhibitions, the inaugural Green Jobs Fair at WFES 2013 is dedicated exclusively to the renewable and sustainable energy sector, and will offer job seekers an opportunity to connect with potential employers at WFES 2013.

The forthcoming World Future Energy Summit (WFES) and the inaugural International Water Summit (IWS) will be part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2013.

The events will take place from January 15-17, 2013 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

Hosted by Masdar Institute, the Green Jobs Fair at WFES 2013 aims to identify ideal candidates to fill local and regional vacancies by offering fast-track career opportunities in the sector. It will also facilitate networking, as well as job and internship search and placement for participating students and young professionals.

With company presentations, career seminars and skills workshops, the Fair will include programmes designed to inspire, instruct, and advise on how to start a career in the highly competitive renewable and advanced energy sector.

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has huge untapped potential for renewable energy, and with the UAE and other Gulf nations expected to invest heavily in this sector, the scope for job opportunities is high.

Maha Al Mansouri, the Director of Human Resources at Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy company, said, “Green energy is one of the new and fast-emerging sectors that requires qualified and adequately trained professionals. As an organization committed to Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification, Masdar believes the right talent will help drive sustainable social progress. The Green Jobs Fair at WFES 2013 will bring together dynamic minds with progressive clean energy organizations, and we hope the interaction will facilitate talent-spotting and suitable work placements, laying the groundwork for the clean energy sector to thrive.”

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, the President of Masdar Institute, said, “Supported by the UAE leadership, we have consistently contributed to knowledge and human capital development in the clean energy and advanced technology sectors. By partnering with our stakeholders to organize the Green Job Fair at WFES 2013, we aim to facilitate job placements for talented youth with the right skill sets. We hope the inaugural job fair will prove mutually beneficial to companies and emerging professionals in the green energy sector.”

Frederic Theux, President of Reed Exhibitions, said, “One of the world’s largest gatherings in the renewable energy sector, the WFES 2013 is a unique networking opportunity for potential employers and employees. The green job fair will be an online-and-show-floor feature at WFES 2013, providing industry-related career advice, creating job connections, generating awareness for local training institutions, and connecting companies with talented individuals.”

New to the WFES programme, this career fair is a pilot initiative jointly sponsored by Mubadala, Masdar, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and HR Source Consultancy.

HR Source Consultancy will schedule interviews between potential candidates and exhibiting partners, match qualified candidates with companies, and run seminars across diverse themes including CV advice, what to expect from the current renewable energy job market and market perspectives.

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Posted in: Green Transport, Masdar, Masdar Institute.

Switching on the light, as 1.3 billion people live without electricity

Dec 31st, 2012
by Hachem Hachem.
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WFES Logo with AD 2013_2 Line

•    Providing universal energy access will be a key discussion point at the sixth World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi from 15- 17 January 2013
•    Project and Finance Village at WFES 2013 to display 40 projects worth over $8 billion for investment opportunities to provide electricity through renewable sources

Abu Dhabi, 31 December 2012: With an estimated 1.3 billion people in the world living without electricity, mainly in poor and rural communities, finding solutions for energy poverty is set to be a key focus of the conference and exhibition during the forthcoming World Future Energy Summit (WFES) in Abu Dhabi from January 15- 17.

The International Energy Agency’s World Energy Outlook reports that, in 2011, around half of the 1.3 billion energy-poor populations live in Africa. Additionally, there are 2.7 billion people living without clean cooking facilities; more than 25% of these people reside in Africa.

Providing universal energy access has been the forefront of sustainability discussions, and in January 2012, the United Nations launched their International Year of Sustainable Energy for All program at WFES. WFES 2013 will continue to focus on global access for energy by including a program and an innovative exhibition initiatives that focus on finding solutions for universal energy access.

Technological advancements in renewable energy and the rising cost of fuel have made rural electrification projects a financially viable option, according to Ernesto Macias Galan, President of the Alliance of Rural Electrification (ARE), the only international, non- profit business association dedicated to the promotion and the development of off-grid renewable energy solutions for rural electrification in developing countries.

Mr Galan, who will be a featured speaker during the “Rural Renewable Energy “ session at the International Renewable Energy Conference (IREC) hosted by WFES 2013, highlights that, with 84% of the world’s energy poor residing in rural and remote areas, the need to find quick and sustainable solutions is imperative for the survival of these communities. “Off- grid renewable projects are an innovative method to tackle energy poverty that is so prevalent in remote and rural communities,” continues Galan.

Galan cites the example of the Monte Trigo solar village as a successful step in overcoming the obstacles posed by energy poverty.  In February 2012, the Monte Trigo solar energy plant provided 60 of the 80 households in this Cape Verdean village uninterrupted electricity supply for the very first time.

Situated on the western most tip of Africa, this village depends on fish for food and more importantly, as a source of income through trade with neighbouring island villages. “Until early this year, producing ice for storing fish was impossible, as Monte Trigo remains unconnected to any main electricity grid. Fishermen would often have to make 10 hour round trips to the nearest main island of Sao Vicente to buy ice. Their need for an energy source to sustain their village was critical,” said Galan.

According to Galan, a Multiuser Solar micro-Grid (MSG) was installed in this village, which is capable of producing approximately 90 kWhr per day—enough to power 60 households.

The Monte Trigo project is one example of how solar energy can bring small but significant changes to rural communities.  However, the IEA predicts that a $48 billion investment is required for electrification—49% of this investment is required for Africa, for communities like Monte Trigo.

The Project and Finance Village, first introduced to WFES in 2011, is making a significant contribution to sourcing finance for renewable energy projects such as the one in Monte Trigo. During WFES2012, up to 27 projects worth over US$5 billion were showcased to investors; however, the number of projects is set to increase significantly at WFES 2013 this January.

“The Project and Finance Village at WFES2013 is responding to the challenges of rural electrification. This year, it has expanded to include 40 projects valued at over US$ 8 billion. Considering that the investment for the Monte Trigo project was just 290,000 euros, the Project and Finance Village has the ability to make powerful strides in overcoming energy poverty, said WFES 2013 Show Director, Naji El Haddad.

The World Future Energy Summit, hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted renewable energy company will also be the host venue for the prestigious biennial International Renewable Energy Conference in Abu Dhabi (ADIREC). For more information, please visit www.worldfutureenergysummit.com

-Ends-

Editor’s notes:

World Future Energy Summit (WFES)

The annual World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi is the world’s foremost gathering dedicated to promoting sustainable technologies. Celebrating its sixth year in 2013, it is the leading international event for government and industry decision makers committed to finding viable, sustainable solutions to the world’s growing energy challenges.

The summit is an unparalleled forum for political, business and intellectual debate, and for networking and transactions between manufacturers, suppliers and customers in both the public and private sector. It comprises a world-class conference, a large-scale exhibition, and an annual celebration of the winners of Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Future Energy Prize, which recognizes global achievement in the fields of renewable energy and sustainable development.

Hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted renewable energy company, the World Future Energy Summit also features the Project and Finance Village, the Young Future Energy Leaders programme, round table discussions, and various corporate events and social engagements.

To be held under the patronage of H.H General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the World Future Energy Summit 2013 runs from January 15-17 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

International Renewable Energy Conference (ADIREC)

The World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002, held in Johannesburg, recognized renewable energy as a critical component of sustainable development, energy security and responsible action on climate change. The Summit inspired the biennial International Renewable Energy Conference, which has gathered a growing community of government decision-makers, policymakers, investors and civil society organizations since the first conference in Bonn, Germany in 2004.

ADIREC is a high-level political conference dedicated to the advancement of the renewable energy sector. Hosted by alternate governments every two years, IREC 2013 will be in Abu Dhabi and builds upon the outcomes from the previous conference in New Delhi, India. ADIREC will focus on the policies, regulatory frameworks and incentives required to facilitate the advancement of renewable energy technology.

ADIREC will be hosted by WFES2013 in Abu Dhabi from 15 – 17 January 2013 as part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

###

For more information, contact:

Reem Diab/Ian Mason

ASDA’A Burson-Marsteller

Abu Dhabi

UAE

Tel: +9712-6334133

reem.diab@bm.com

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Posted in: Energy, Sustainability, WFES.

FNC member pledges US$1-million to Masdar Institute’s YFEL Program

Dec 25th, 2012
by Hachem Hachem.
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FNC

Masdar Institute of Science of Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, yesterday announced Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri, member of the Federal National Council and the Chairman of the Committee on Finance and Economic Council, has once again reiterated his support to the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program with a contribution of one million US dollars.

An agreement was signed by Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri and Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar, and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute. Dr Lamya N Fawwaz, Executive Director, Public Affairs, Hamza Kazim, Vice-President, Operations ‘&’ Finance, also attended the signing ceremony. Zainab Al Ali, Senior Outreach Officer and YFEL Program Coordinator at Masdar Institute, was present on the occasion.

Sultan Al Dhaheri’s contribution to YFEL 2013 marks the second such commitment for a similar amount that will go towards developing future leaders in sustainable energy. It also demonstrates the UAE national’s commitment to community-oriented programs. In January this year, His Excellency Al Dhaheri donated US$1 million towards YFEL 2012 program.

Al Dhaheri said: “Individual professional development needs to go hand in hand with higher education. These two aspects are crucial components for developing capable future leaders. In my opinion, the YFEL program combines these aspects and offers one of the most effective avenues for the overall development of youth. Our contribution to the YFEL program for the second time bears testimony to the success of the YFEL program and Masdar Institute’s outreach initiatives. We hope YFEL 2013 will further contribute to enhancing the skill sets of young Emiratis and help them develop into future leaders.” – Emirates News Agency, WAM

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Posted in: Uncategorized.

Gulf Arab countries forecast high returns for renewable energy: IRENA

Dec 24th, 2012
by Hachem Hachem.
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dec 24The Abu Dhabi-based International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) said Saturday the six GCC countries’ returns through renewable energy integration could hit 200 billion U.S. dollars by 2030.

IRENA said in an e-mailed report that the six countries of the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC), which are Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Oman, continued to establish ambitious clean energy projects which are supported by innovative research and development as well as investment.

IRENA added that there are presently 30 such projects which are in planning stage, under construction or have been completed in the region. The GCC states, home of some 60 percent of the world’s known oil reserves, aim to reduce their reliance on oil and gas and to diversify their sources of energy for their own needs in order not to keep their oil and gas wealth for the lucrative energy export business.

IRENA cited Qatar as an example, which was currently working on a solar energy project which will account for 16 percent of the country’s total electrical output by 2018, said IRENA. In a joint- venture with U.S. oil giant Chevron, Qatar recently installed the first test phase of a solar park in the gas- and sun-rich Gulf state’s desert.

“Saudi Arabia is seeking investors for a 109 billion dollars solar energy program which will provide a third of electricity needs by 2032,” the UN-related agency added.

Earlier in October this year, the emirate of Dubai started to build the first phase of the Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, a 13 megawatt solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in the south-east of the sheikhdom. As of today, Dubai gets 99 percent of its domestic electricity needs from gas power.

Abu Dhabi, where IRENA runs its headquarters, recently completed the 600 million dollars Shams-1 solar park. Shams (Arabic for sun) is one of the largest solar power parks in the world.

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Posted in: IRENA, renewable energy.

Sun Shines on Renewable Energy as an Economic Force

Dec 17th, 2012
by Hachem Hachem.
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•    New exhibition features at the sixth World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi from 15 – 17 January aimed at supporting the growth of the renewable energy industry
•    The Sustainable Living Area, the Technology Exchange Platform and the Green Jobs Fair introduced at WFES 2013 to facilitate growth and employment in the sector

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 17 December 2012: As the global energy demand continues to rise, and governments invest further in renewable sources, the sustainable energy industry is emerging as an economic powerhouse.

It is not just the development of alternative energy sources, like solar, wind, geothermal or hydropower, that is driving this spectacular industry growth; domestic sustainability and green jobs are all playing a major role in the sector’s rapid expansion.

The REN21 Renewables 2012 Global Status Report, the sister publication of the Renewables Global Futures Report which will be launched during the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi from 15 – 17 January 2013, highlights over US$257 billion were invested in renewable energy in 2011. 200 million homes worldwide now collect solar hot water, and globally there are 5 million jobs created in renewable energy industries.

These are significant numbers which make the new exhibition features at sixth edition of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES 2013), hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted renewable energy company, so crucial to the continued growth of the sector.

“With the World Future Energy Summit confirming its position as the world’s foremost event for the sustainability sector, we want to keep adding more value for the 30,000 people expected to attend. We also want to keep up with the current trends in the renewable energy industries, and support the sector as it becomes more important to the global economy,” said Naji El Haddad, Show Director for WFES 2013.

WFES 2013 will see the introduction of the Sustainable Living Area, incorporating the WFES Eco-Home endorsed by Estidama and the energy efficiency pavilion. The WFES Eco-Home is a real size, walk-in house featuring green and eco-friendly elements, complying with the Estidama Pearl Rating System.

Also being showcased for the first time is the Technology Exchange Platform (TXP) which enables businesses to present and discuss their latest products, services and solutions in renewable and sustainable energy technologies to a global audience.

WFES2013 also promises to be a hub for renewable energy professionals looking for further career opportunities as well as companies looking for skilled staff and graduates.

“For the first time, we are featuring a Green Jobs Fair, in collaboration with Masdar Institute, which will offer invaluable networking opportunities to connect renewable energy employers and experienced people working in the sector,” said Mr El Haddad.

“The Green Ideas Fair and the Food-Energy-Water Nexus Exhibition and Gallery are other exhibition features making their debut at WFES 2013, so we are really focusing on supporting the sector’s growth as renewable energy becomes a powerful and global mainstream industry.”

“In addition to these new features, the Project and Finance Village first introduced in 2011 will return with more investors, more financiers and 40 projects, worth over US$8 billion, looking for funding and technologies.”

The sixth World Future Energy Summit, from 15 – 17 January 2013, hosted by Masdar, is the centerpiece of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) and will be co-located with the inaugural International Water Summit, also hosted by Masdar.

During this time, WFES 2013 will also be the host venue for the prestigious biennial International Renewable Energy Conference in Abu Dhabi (ADIREC).  ADSW will open with the third session of the Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

- Ends -

Editor’s notes:

World Future Energy Summit (WFES)

The annual World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi is the world’s foremost gathering dedicated to promoting sustainable technologies. Celebrating its sixth year in 2013, it is the leading international event for government and industry decision makers committed to finding viable, sustainable solutions to the world’s growing energy challenges.

The summit is an unparalleled forum for political, business and intellectual debate, and for networking and transactions between manufacturers, suppliers and customers in both the public and private sector. It comprises a world-class conference, a large-scale exhibition, and an annual celebration of the winners of Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Future Energy Prize, which recognizes global achievement in the fields of renewable energy and sustainable development.

Hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted renewable energy company, the World Future Energy Summit also features the Project and Finance Village, the Young Future Energy Leaders programme, round table discussions, and various corporate events and social engagements.

To be held under the patronage of H.H General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the World Future Energy Summit 2013 runs from January 15-17 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

For more information, contact:

Reem Diab/Ian Mason

ASDA’A Burson-Marsteller

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Tel: +9712-6334133

reem.diab@bm.com

ian.mason@bm.com

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Posted in: Sustainability, WFES, alternative energy sources, sustainable development.

Membrane distillation tech can save up to $50b: Masdar

Dec 11th, 2012
by Hachem Hachem.
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ABU DHABI: Oil companies and refineries, particularly in the GCC, can save up to $50 billion, if they adopt the membrane distillation technologies for treating the water produced during the production and distillation processes, a scientific research conducted by Masdar Institute in cooperation with other institutions says.

Dr Nidal Hillal, professor of Nano-membranology at Masdar Institute, Dr Naif Darweesh and Abdullah Khudairy, a student took part in the research that was entitled “Treating produced water: application of air gap membrane distillation technology.”

The research will be published in the international magazine Desalination in its 309th issue that is scheduled to be released on Jan.15.

This new technology can be applied on the renewable energy sources such as solar power, the research said.

The membrane distillation is a thermal separation process and a sought after technology for water desalination, which features several advantages compared with other technologies.

“Treating the produced water is a big challenge facing the petroleum industry in the entire GCC, whereas the current options are to drain water or to inject it in the wells,” Dr Nidal said.

Besides the high cost of the available technologies that are not only inefficient, these measures are also restricted by the environmental laws, leading them to be unfavourable options. Thus the membrane distillation is an ideal solution, he added.
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Posted in: Masdar Institute, renewable energy.

IRENA: GCC Could Achieve $200 Billion from Renewable Energy

Dec 6th, 2012
by Hachem Hachem.
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MenaFN-06122012-821469-qna_IRENA_05122012(MENAFN – Qatar News Agency) The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has asserted that GCC countries could achieve returns from renewable energy integration reaching 200 Billion until 2030 through cutting carbon emissions and increasing fuel reserves.

During a press conference on the sidelines of the 18th UN Climate Change Conference held in Doha, IRENA explained that GCC countries have up to 30 renewable energy projects; some complete, while others under construction or being planned.

These countries are increasingly heading towards the establishment of ambitious projects in all areas of the region which rely on renewable energy, it said, adding that they are supported by the announcement of the target product, innovative research and development, as well as investment in energy production.

The growth of the renewable energy industry in GCC countries, which have been implementing projects for more than 30 years, brings the world closer to taking advantage of renewable energy capabilities as a source of fuel.
IRENA, which is based in Abu Dhabi, pointed out some obstacles preventing renewable energy from becoming a reality in GCC countries, including the lack of legislation regulating sources and wide scale support for fossil fuel despite the availability of resources.

IRENA highlighted the importance of making changes to the structural framework and government support for SMEs.

It is noted that IRENA is mandated by 158 countries and the European Union to promote the sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy, and to serve as the global hub for renewable energy cooperation and information exchange. Formally established in 2011, IRENA is the first major international organization to be headquartered in the Middle East.

IRENA asserted that GCC countries, which are witnessing rapid economic growth, have become among major energy consumers in the world, as regional consumption increases almost 8% per year.

These countries will need to save 100 GW of surplus energy over the next 10 years to fulfill demand, it said, adding that the consumption of electricity from renewable sources means less reliance on oil and gas and an increase in exportation.

IRENA indicated that the use of renewable energy in GCC countries is a method, also given cost efficiency. Solar energy usage for generating electricity is also suitable for rising demand for electricity due to air conditioning in GCC countries in specific.

The Gulf region, rich in hydrocarbon sources, also has renewable resources because of the strong, consistent solar rays and space for solar energy stations, in addition to other sources like wind, thermal energy, biomass and urban waste.

In the same context, a report distributed by IRENA during the Conference has shown that GCC countries have a series of factories and companies considered of value for renewable energy including Qatar Solar Technologies (QStec). IRENA forecasted that electricity consumption in GCC countries will reach 856 terawatt/hour by 2020, which requires the production of an additional 100 GW.

GCC electricity production during 2010 has reached 456 terawatt/hour, IRENA said, adding that consumption per capita exceeds that of the EU.

(MENAFN – Qatar News Agency) The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has asserted that GCC countries could achieve returns from renewable energy integration reaching 200 Billion until 2030 through cutting carbon emissions and increasing fuel reserves.
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Posted in: IRENA, Sustainability, renewable energy.

UAE launches drive for tapping renewable sources of energy

Nov 29th, 2012
by Hachem Hachem.
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ABU DHABI, Nov 29 (APP): United Arab Emirates has mounted a major drive for exploring renewable and sustainable sources of energy by tapping solar and wind potential in a bid to lessen its  dependence on oil in years ahead. Dr. Nawal Al Husani Director of sustainable and clean energy along with Director Masdar Clean City energy Bader Al Lamki briefing  journalists from different countries ,here to attend the 41th national day celebrations, said that Masdar City Initiative had been launched to realize these goals in line with vision of  UAE’s founding father Shaikh Zahid bin Sultan Al Nahayan who wanted to ensure a sustained economic growth for securing the future of coming generations.She said Masdar City had emerged one of the world’s first low-carbon urban developments which was  powered by renewable energy and a test- bed for cutting edge clean energy and efficiency technologies.

The City’s engagement with local and international suppliers , she said had  resulted in the city helping develop and bring  to local  markets a range of green building materials, including low-carbon cement, high recycled content aluminum, sustainably sourced timber and 100 per cent recycled steel reinforcing bars.
Director Masdar Clean City energy Bader Al Lamki  said the initiative had accomplished a lot in last two years and UAE  was helping Britain in the field of renewable energy. One of our big project  with 630 Mega watts capacity in Britain was at the last stage of  completion while another is being built at the coast of  Essex to utilize wind resources for producing power.
Masdar City’s experts, he said were looking to make investment in renewable energy not in Europe alone but also working on different projects  in the Middle East, said Al Lakmi.
Dr. Nawal said the Masdar Institute’s residential buildings  were designed to use 54 per cent less potable water and 51 per cent less electricity than businesses as usual. She said 30 per cent of these buildings demand was being met by rooftop PV and 75 per cent hot water was provided by rooftop thermal collectors.
During  a visit to Masdar  one of the experts at Masdar City Initiative Simon Braeuniger told journalists that chilled water is being used to cool at least 1700 sq meter of office space in the city.
He said the solar panels installed at  Masdar City  at the moment were producing 10 MW of electricity but the capacity could be enhanced by installing more  panels.
Answering a question Dr. Nawal said women were accorded a special place in  development of  the country and even at Masdar City Institute of Science and Technology 30 per students were women.
She quoted the founder of the country , Sheikh Zahid bin Sultan Al Nahyan as having said “Nothing could delight me more than to see the woman taking up her distinctive position in society, Nothing should hinder her progress”.
At present the UAE has 4 women cabinet ministers while 9 out of 40 members of parliament are women besides they  are represented in all government departments.

Referring to forge international cooperation for tackling the world’s major challenges  in sustainability and renewable energy, Dr.  Nawal said Masdar was hosting ‘Abu Dhabi Sustainability week’ in January next year. It will bring together the World Future Energy Summit, the International Renewable Energy Conference, IRENA’s2 2nd General Assembly and the Zayed Future Energy Prize Award ceremony.  The  Zahid Future Energy Prize was established in 2008 for promoting clean environment in the world.
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Posted in: Masdar, Masdar City, Solar Energy, Sustainability, Wind Energy, renewable energy, wind.

Vision of Sheikh Zayed Continues to Resonate as Countdown to WFES 2013 Begins

Nov 29th, 2012
by Hachem Hachem.
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WFES Logo with AD 2013_4 Line

On December 2, 1971, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan became the president of the newly formed United Arab Emirates. Charged with leading this young country, the biggest resource that enabled the UAE’s first president to transform this arid desert region into the sprawling business hub it is today was not money but vision.

The word “sustainable” is liberally used today but in the 1970s, Sheikh Zayed’s focus on building a diverse economy was decades ahead of its time. It is his vision that has led Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, to adopt The Economic Vision 2030. The emphasis of the current leadership’s strategy is simple– building a sustainable economy, and ensuring a balanced social and regional economic development through the diversification of industry. Part of this vision included a global contribution to future environmental needs including a clear focus on the development of renewable energies as a means of addressing the challenges of high energy demand and water scarcity so prevalent in the Middle East.

The strategic vision to transform Abu Dhabi’s economy was in play even before the Economic Vision was drafted. Sheikh Zayed’s insight has been transformed to action by the current leadership who have encouraged a number of initiatives that promote sustainable energy. Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted renewable and sustainable energy company, was formed in 2006, and two years later, Masdar inaugurated the first World Future Energy Summit. Since 2009, Abu Dhabi serves as the headquarters for the United Nation’s International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

The World Future Energy Summit, hosted by Masdar and supported by IRENA, gives momentum to the mandate of the past and present leadership to diversify the economic portfolio of the UAE. With a focus on providing sustainable energy solutions, WFES has become a flagship event in the Abu Dhabi’s strategic vision to transform their regional and global business activities, and, approaching its sixth edition, is now acclaimed as the world’s foremost platform for the energy and environmental industries.

From January 15- 17 2013, I hope you will join over 30,000 regional and worldwide leaders, businesses, scientists, developers and many others in Abu Dhabi to further fulfill Sheikh Zayed’s vision during the 2013 World Future Energy Summit, the centrepiece of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

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Posted in: Energy Efficiency, Sustainability, WFES, environment, renewable energy, sustainable development, sustainable living.

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