The demand for electricity in the Middle East region continues to surge with a record seven per cent increase annually, one of the world's highest growth rate, according to an expert.

The GCC countries remain committed to adopt sustainable solutions to address the region's electricity demand and are investing heavily into alternative energy sources.

'Although alternative energy represents the future in power generation, there are issues and challenges that need to be identified and addressed to achieve an integration of these new energy solutions into our existing power infrastructure,' pointed out Anselm Godinho, managing director of International Conferences and Exhibitions (IC&E), the organisers of OGS 2009, a premier oil, gas, renewable energy and automation event.

Alter Energy ‘09, a conference-led event that will be held in conjunction with OGS 2009 from October 27 to 29 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, will gather key stakeholders, decision makers and policy setters in the energy sector to discuss issues related to the region's future energy strategy.

Alter Energy ‘09 will provide a platform for GCC countries to examine new techniques, technologies and knowledge in harnessing non-conventional energy sources, including solar and wind energy.

It will also create an ideal platform for international and regional industry players of green technology and renewable energy to meet, debate and establish strategic partnerships and ultimately address the GCC's spiralling power requirements,' Godinho noted.

The key topics to be discussed at Alter Energy '09 include various opportunities for oil and gas producers in alternative energy projects; strategies to minimise the impact of energy projects on carbon footprint and climate change; viability of solar power and other renewable energies for the Middle East region.

The strategies for minimising the regional water consumption and footprint; and current and future sustainable energy projects will also be discussed. Various case studies will also be presented and discussed during the conference.

Alter Energy '09 will also feature case study presentations on sustainable energy projects in the region such as the Masdar Initiative, a multi-million dollar project that aims to build a zero-carbon city in Abu Dhabi, which will serve as a catalyst for the global growth of renewable energy solutions.

Alter Energy ‘09 expects to assemble an elite cast of personalities, including representatives from national oil producers, international oil companies, alternative energy suppliers, energy service providers, energy and building contractors, ministries and public service providers, government agencies and research centres.

Alter Energy '09 and OGS 2009 will be held concurrently with the 'Excellence in Engineering Forum,' which has been established to be the definitive platform for young industry professionals to discuss the opportunities and challenges that they are likely to face as they seek to build a career in the energy sector.-TradeArabia News Service