Indian energy saving pioneer to set up Mid East manufacturing base

The company, which will launch its pioneering industrial power management and automatic billing software in Dubai next January, at Middle East Electricity 2003 - the region's premier exhibition and conference for the energy industry - says the facility could be operational within one year.

"We are holding talks with several free zones in the UAE but no decision has been taken, yet, on where the facility, which will service the Gulf and wider Middle East as well as Africa, will be located," said Hema Hattangady, Managing Director, Enercon Systems.

"We have had little penetration in the Middle East and Africa, but there is huge potential to expand our market share. The demand for energy saving products is growing rapidly as companies strive to control electricity consumption."

Enercon says studies in Asia and the Far East, where its systems are already in use, have shown they can deliver profit increases ranging from 12% to over 400%, dependent on industry sector, for every 5% reduction in energy cost.

"Bridging the region's energy demand-supply gap through increased power generation is very expensive - Saudi Arabia alone will need $115 billion investment over the next 23 years. Energy management systems offer a practical alternative to building new power stations," said Hattangady

"The energy hole is of prime concern to policy makers at the macro level. But it is consuming industries that can contribute most through increased efficiency and reduced wastage."

To spearhead its Middle East expansion plans, Enercon Systems will stage the regional launch of its computer based power management software at Middle East Electricity 2003, as well as showcasing its digital panel and multi-function meters and harmonic filters.

Enercon is one of five Indian companies so far registered for Middle East Electricity 2003, which will feature national pavilions from the UK, Germany, Spain, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Korea, and France. In addition, Turkey and South Africa will field country groups.

"Power conservation will be at the forefront of the show, with countries throughout the region seeking new ways to deal with soaring energy demand," said Sarah Woodbridge, Exhibitions Director, Power and Energy Division, IIR Exhibitions, organisers of Middle East Electricity.

"Infrastructure development and a booming population are fuelling power demand. More efficient available energy use makes sound economic sense and offers significant opportunities for companies seeking to break into regional markets."

Middle East Electricity 2003 will feature a number of innovations, including a new arena, 'Lighting Middle East', focusing on the commercial and industrial lighting sector. Other additions include the staging of the 9th Annual Power Generation Summit, alongside the exhibition and a dedicated area for new and renewable energy.

The show, which is supported by the UAE Ministry of Electricity and Water and the Federal Electricity and Water Authority, will be held at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, from January 19-21, 2003.