This year’s WFES theme will be Enabling Future Energy Solutions. It one of the key discussion topics is expected to be how to utilise the MENA region’s enormous potential to become one of the world’s largest producers of renewable energy.
MENA region's renewable energy potential
The MENA region is receiving increasing global attention as its potential as a source of renewable energy production emerges. Recent research from Booz & Company indicates that as a result of high solar radiation levels and good wind resources, the region has the potential to offer 45% of the world’s total renewable energy generation based on measurement of existing generation capacity, WFES organisers say.
The research also showed that if this resource is fully harnessed, the region could be capable of producing three times the world’s total current power demand.
Frederic Theux, President, Reed Exhibitions, says: “The global demand for energy, combined with depleting fossil fuel reserves, requires a global response to the challenges of enabling future energy solutions that are both secure and sustainable. The World Future Energy Summit provides a unique opportunity for world leaders and renewable energy experts to move forward with an integrated and collaborative approach.
“It is important that the world’s experts have a forum to address the most pertinent issues affecting the future of energy globally, and to discuss the needs of the public and private sectors in overcoming these challenges.”
Key topics
The WFES 2011 programme is centred on four key topics: policy, business, technology and finance.
In each themed Summit Day, international policy makers, business leaders, innovators and financiers will discuss the issues that matter most to delegates from sectors such as solar, wind, energy efficiency, biofuels, geothermal and hydropower.
Topics under discussion will include building green cities, e-mobility, transforming policy into business opportunities, overcoming the challenges of energy storage and financing future energy projects.
WFES 2011 will feature two exhibitions: The World Future Energy Exhibition, focusing on advanced and renewable energy, and The World Future Environment Exhibition dedicated to air, water and waste management technologies and solutions.