Global IWPP : Reliability for power and water

Sept. 11, 2012 - PRLog -- In both developing countries and mature economies around the world, electricity and water have fast growing consumption rates. The Middle East region is facing a challenge to balance both these resources effectively. Power generation operators have to effectively, yet efficiently, increase output to meet a growing need. The GCC has made a continuous and concerted effort to enhance its power generation capacity with demands expected to grow between 7% - 8% annually and is planning to spend US$ 45 billion until 2015 in order to meet this demand.
In addition to power production shortcomings, GCC regions need to also overcome water shortages and ensure sustainable resources for their future. A recent report states that GCC governments are expected to invest over USD 100 billion in the water sector between 2012 and 2016 to improve desalination technologies and maximise on waste water treatments and recycling. GCC regions are amongst the world’s top ten producers of desalinated water and desalination currently provides two-thirds of the water requirements in GCC. The new urgency and high priority assigned by governments to investments across the water desalination sector in the region is therefore not a surprise.

The powerful combination of both power and water has urged GCC Governments to open their doors to the idea of an Independent (Integrated) Water & Power Project (IWPP) model to boost economical and social performance. An IWPP can serve as a provider of reliable power and water to its population while also supporting basic infrastructure needs . Developing an IWPP also requires serious involvement from private players for capital infusion as well as technology. Fleming Gulf's 'Global IWPP Summit' to be held in Ras Al Khaimah in October this year will showcase a series of studies, project updates as well as technologies from global players who have successfully adopted and implemented this sustainable system. A perspective from government bodies will shed light on strategies and policies being initiated to promote the start of new projects and aid the future development of their economies.