More than 3000 suppliers, technology vendors, government and corporate decision-makers and other trade visitors explored business and investment opportunities at a conference with focus on GCC power held in Riyadh.

GCC Power 2009 Conference and Exhibition took place from October 19 to 21 at Marriott Hotel in Riyadh.

In addition, more than 500 local and international delegates attended the event to discuss around 57 papers on electricity and energy.

GCC Power 2009 Conference sessions highlighted system planning, development and technical studies, system operation and control, power system protection, substations and HV equipment, power transformers, transmission lines and cables and electricity markets and generation development.

Saudi Arabia figured prominently in the marketing and expansion programme of international energy firms as the country currently accounts for an estimated 50 per cent of the SR607.5 billion ($162 billion) power projects being undertaken in the GCC, a statement said.

"The GCC Regional Committee for Large Electric Systems (CIGRE) whose activities deal with issues pertaining to electrical generation and transmission, mainly aims to facilitate and promote the interchange of technical knowledge and information between GCC member states and related countries in the general field of electricity generation and transmission of high voltage,” explained Saad Ahmed Al Mohannadi, executive secretary, GCC CIGRE.

“The organised conference expressed the committee's role through offering a platform for cooperation and sharing best practices among GCC countries to develop reliable, world-class power systems. Furthermore, the strong turnout clearly manifests the GCC's growing reputation as the world's largest energy market,” he added.

GCC Power 2009 Conference and Exhibition showcased innovative services and products as well as a comprehensive presentation of renewable power resources.

The event also offered pioneering technology solutions that will support an estimated SR187.5 billion worth of upcoming projects expected to be launched within the next few years until 2015.

The event also included the fifth GCC CIGRE International Conference and the 14th Exhibition for Electrical Equipments. – TradeArabia News Service