GCC POWER 2024 Conference and Exhibition Open in Bahrain, Focusing on Sustainable Energy

The 20th GCC – CIGRE International Conference and 30th Exhibition for Electrical Equipment, branded as “GCC POWER 2024,” commenced in Manama, Bahrain, bringing together key players in the energy sector to discuss sustainable power generation. Hosted over three days, the event has attracted prominent figures, including Kamal Bin Ahmed Mohamed, President of Bahrain’s Electricity and Water Authority (EWA), along with top officials, industry leaders, analysts, and financial experts.

In his opening remarks, Mohamed underscored the conference’s main theme: “Providing Sustainable Electricity for All,” calling for the GCC region’s active role in sustainable energy production and carbon footprint reduction. He emphasized Bahrain’s strategic position amidst rising energy demands, sustainability targets, and economic goals, urging innovative approaches in the sector.

Focus on Renewable Energy and Technology Integration

A highlight of the event was a session led by Dr. Lawrence Jones, Senior Vice President for International Programmes at the Edison Electric Institute, where Mohamed detailed Bahrain’s plans for energy diversification. EWA’s renewable transformation goals include raising the renewable energy share to 20% by 2035 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. The initiative also includes a gradual shift to advanced energy technologies aimed at boosting operational efficiency, alongside efforts to replace aging power stations with high-efficiency alternatives.

CIGRE’s Global Knowledge Mission

GCC CIGRE Board Chairman Ahmed Naser Al-Nasr highlighted CIGRE’s role in advancing power system knowledge. “CIGRE leads a global knowledge programme, spanning 16 domains critical to power system development,” said Al-Nasr. With over 250 Working Groups, CIGRE addresses pressing and future challenges in the industry, focusing on sustainable solutions for power systems.

Al-Nasr also stressed the importance of the forum as a platform for critical dialogue, innovation, and collaboration in the energy sector. “Grid resilience, sustainable energy integration, and community expertise development are key growth drivers,” he added.

Key Topics and Future of the Power Sector

The GCC POWER 2024 conference is set to address various specialised topics, including transformer design, HVDC and FACTS technology, renewable and nuclear energy adoption, and smart grid development. Technical Committee Chairman Ahmed Ali Al-Ebrahim noted that this year’s event offers unmatched networking and knowledge opportunities for exhibitors and attendees alike, providing a platform for education on advancements such as asset management for power systems and insulated cables.

As the event progresses, industry leaders are expected to discuss vital strategies to align the GCC region’s power sector with global sustainability goals, reinforcing Bahrain’s commitment to an energy-secure and environmentally responsible future.