2004 Middle East Electricity to be biggest ever

Scheduled to take place from February 15-18, the show will for the first time feature three vertical arenas for the power generation, lighting and new and renewable energy sectors.

'Over 80% of participants in this year's exhibition have rebooked for 2004 and we are anticipating high international demand for exhibitor space as companies' strategic focus shifts to the Middle East market,' said Sarah Woodbridge, Exhibitions Director for IIR's Power and Energy Division.

'Industry sources estimate GCC countries need to invest US $150 billion in the near term to meet the demand for electricity that is expanding at between 7-10% per annum, way beyond the global average of 3%. It is this high level of growth which is attracting so much international interest.'

Energy sector market leaders that have already contracted for Middle East Electricity 2004 include: ABB, Kema, Lucy Switchgear, Schneider, Zamil Steeel Industries, Oez International, Henikwon Corporation, Enercon Systems and NGK Insulators.

Middle East Electricity 2004 will again host the Middle East Electricity Ministers' Summit, on the first day of the event's expanded three-day industry conference. It will bring together government decision-makers, leading regional and international power companies and respected industry advisors, to discuss how new strategies and technologies can meet rapidly expanding energy needs.

The remainder of the conference programme will have a strong focus on power generation issues and include a half-day forum on new and renewable energy.

The exhibition and conference have the support of UAE Ministry of Electricity and Water and the Federal Electricity and Water Authority.