In The Spotlight
Alkhorayef Water and Power Technologies Company has secured a US$10.5mn contract from the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) for the operation and maintenance (O&M) of water and sewage treatment plants at land ports.
The contract covers the operation, maintenance, and cleaning of water stations, wastewater treatment plants, and their related accessories, the company announced in a statement to the Saudi stock exchange on Tuesday.
Zawya Projects reported that the positive financial impact of the contract will begin reflecting in Alkhorayef's results in the first quarter of 2025.
Earlier this month, ZATCA and the National Centre for Privatisation & PPP (NCP) also launched the tendering process for customs warehouses through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has released its latest white paper on green hydrogen, produced in collaboration with key industry stakeholders such as KROHNE.
The document highlights the importance of measurement and standards in successfully integrating green hydrogen as a sustainable fuel source.
The white paper outlines several key areas:
Measurement and Standards: The report stresses that robust measurement and standardisation are crucial for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of green hydrogen production and usage. Accurate metrics are necessary for optimising processes and building trust among stakeholders.
Industry Collaboration: Input from companies like KROHNE underscores the need for collaboration across industries to establish a comprehensive framework for green hydrogen, addressing the unique challenges each sector faces in adopting this fuel source.
Decarbonisation Goals: Green hydrogen is poised to play a pivotal role in the global energy transition, particularly in sectors that are harder to decarbonise. The white paper details strategies for overcoming technological and policy barriers to widespread adoption, discussed during New York Climate Week in September 2024.
Future Outlook: IRENA’s white paper offers a roadmap for scaling up green hydrogen production and integrating it into existing energy systems. It calls for immediate action to unlock the potential of this sustainable fuel.
KROHNE, a member of the Alliance for Industry Decarbonisation since 2023, continues to support global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Alliance, facilitated by IRENA, emphasises the importance of reliable measurement and standards in achieving decarbonisation goals. KROHNE’s expertise in measurement technology positions it as a vital contributor to these efforts.
Through strategic partnerships and research initiatives, KROHNE aims to support the transition toward net-zero emissions by driving innovation in green hydrogen solutions.
Dicode Technologies (Dicode) has announced a strategic partnership with Australian Internet of Things (IoT) provider X2M Connect Limited (X2M) at WETEX, with plans to introduce X2M’s advanced utility platform to the Middle East, starting in the UAE.
The “pay as you go” model offers gas companies a cost-effective way to modernise their infrastructure using IoT technology with zero upfront capital expenditure (Capex).
The partnership aims to transform the UAE's gas sector by offering a complete end-to-end solution, designed to help companies shift from a Capex to an operational expenditure (Opex) model.
Increasing safety
The service is delivered through a “Platform as a Service (PaaS)” model and includes smart gas meters, LoRaWAN communications powered by Digital DEWA’s InfraX, and X2M’s patented IoT software solution.
The X2M software provides key benefits, such as being device-agnostic, allowing compatibility with a variety of smart meters and sensors. It supports multiple utilities, including gas, water, and electricity, facilitating broader integration and operational efficiency.
With compatibility across various communication protocols, such as Zigbee, WISUN, Modbus, LoRaWAN, NBIoT, and LTE, the platform ensures seamless connectivity. It also includes leak detection features, improving safety and reliability by identifying and preventing leaks.
The software offers flexible deployment options, either on the edge, on-premises, or in the cloud, making it adaptable to different business needs. It can easily integrate with any Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system for smooth operational transitions.
Additionally, the platform supports AI-driven analytics, delivering real-time data to help gas companies make smarter, more informed decisions.
X2M CEO and MD Mohan Jesudason, said, “We like the digitisation landscape in the Middle East with the UAE being a very logical entry point. X2M has built a strong working partnership with Dicode over a period of time. We are now looking forward to taking our proprietary utility solutions into this market in collaboration with the Dicode team.”
Dicode co-founder and CEO, Satish Chandran, said, “In line with Dicode’s vision of helping Gas Utilities migrate to smart infrastructure, we are proud to enter into partnership with X2M. X2M’s advanced software is a pivotal piece of our PaaS offering. The versatility of X2M software and its on-ground experience will help us rapidly scale the UAE market.”
Artificial intelligence solutions providers AIQ and Inception have signed an agreement to drive technology innovation and transformation in the energy sector
Announced at GITEX Global 2024 in Dubai, the partnership will aim to enhance efficiency, improve safety and sustainability, and reduce costs through revolutionary near-real time data processing, advanced multi-modal insights, and AI-assisted automation across the entire energy value chain.
“Joining forces with Inception in this strategic partnership will see AIQ unlock new opportunities for growth and transformation in the Energy sector, pushing the boundaries of AI innovation and driving real, impactful change,” said Magzhan Kenesbai, acting managing director at AIQ. “This collaboration is testament to our commitment to enhancing productivity and sustainability, while reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global hub for technological excellence.”
Ashish Koshy, chief operating officer of Inception, said, “Our partnership with AIQ marks a defining moment in how artificial intelligence combined with domain expertise can accelerate innovation in the Energy sector. By combining our expertise in large language and advanced AI models with AIQ’s industry expertise and proven track record in the Energy sector, we are confident that together we will deliver solutions that will set new standards for operational excellence, efficiency, and sustainability. Our partnership with AIQ marks a defining moment in how artificial intelligence can accelerate innovation in the energy sector.”
The collaboration will focus on leveraging advanced technologies that enable faster decision-making and improve real-time data processing capabilities, empowering the energy sector to navigate the complexities and demands of operations with greater intelligence and agility. As part of the agreement, both companies will also explore opportunities to enhance AI models and accelerate the deployment of AI solutions across the energy value chain.
Leading motor, drive, and gearbox manufacturer WEG is set to play a key role in one of the largest water transmission projects in the Middle East.
WEG will provide a complete package of motors, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and transformers to support the new water infrastructure, which will deliver water between two of the region’s biggest cities.
The large-scale water transmission system presents significant challenges, with extreme temperatures and environmental conditions. The customer required a holistic solution that includes transformers, water-cooled VFDs, and motors with power ratings up to 9.1 MW to power the pumps within the system.
The MVW01 VFDs with water cooling, a specific requirement for this project, are equipped with an electric panel featuring a new thermal dissipation design that allows for greater power output. The VFDs also include a user-friendly 10-inch touchscreen HMI, simplifying programming and monitoring of key operational parameters. By controlling the process speed efficiently, the VFDs reduce energy consumption, operation and maintenance costs, and the overall total cost of ownership (TCO).
The phase-shifting transformers in the package offer complete isolation, reducing common-mode voltage stress on the motor and lowering harmonics on the power supply. Oil-type transformers were selected to meet the project’s outdoor installation needs. Designed with a step-lap-type magnetic core, the transformers optimise noise levels and keep exciting current low, while their rugged construction can handle short circuit stresses. In addition, the external coatings protect the transformers against harsh environmental conditions.
WEG also provided water-cooled W60 MV motors, which are built to deliver excellent performance under aggressive operating conditions, including extreme ambient temperatures. These motors are designed for industrial applications such as compressors, pumps, and fans. They are both efficient and modular, allowing for different cooling configurations.
“Water transmission systems are a crucial part of critical infrastructure and require specialised equipment that is both robust and reliable to ensure that they run effectively and safely. This can be a particular challenge in harsh outdoor environments,” said Alla Aldrras, HVS development sales manager for HVS Motors & Drives. “We’ve drawn on our experience of developing solutions for the water industry globally to offer a holistic package to meet the customer’s needs, and thanks to our facilities in Brazil, we are able to deliver this well within the project schedule.”
Niftylift is at the forefront in the mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) sector, offering some of the most fuel-efficient diesel-powered equipment, as well as hybrid and fully electric models.
Recently, it introduced the world’s first hydrogen-electric-powered access platforms – the HR15 H2E and HR17 H2E – marking a breakthrough in zero-emission construction in the Middle East.
"When powered by renewable energy, Niftylift’s fully electric platforms provide a dependable zero-emission solution for a wide range of urban jobsites. However, we recognise that not all projects, especially those in remote locations, have access to grid power for charging. This is where the hydrogen fuel cell comes into play. By adding it on top of the electric system, we offer a versatile and practical solution that’s viable for virtually any jobsite," explains Thomas Hadden, global technical sales manager at Niftylift.
The HR15 H2E and HR17 H2E can run for up to five days on batteries alone, with the hydrogen system doubling this range. Even with daily use, the hydrogen cylinder only needs replacing every two to three weeks. These boom lifts integrate hydrogen technology seamlessly, maintaining Niftylift's renowned low weight and compact design while emitting only water vapour and heat as by-products. This makes them ideal for both urban and remote sites, aligning with the region’s sustainability goals.
Johnson Arabia became the first rental company in the region to acquire a Niftylift HR15 H2E, impressed by its performance during a demonstration. The company also added 19 fully electric units to its fleet. The HR15 H2E is now operational on a high-profile UAE construction site, delivering zero emissions without downtime for refuelling or recharging.
Growth in the Middle East
Niftylift sees strong potential in the Middle East, driven by the focus on sustainability and safety in construction. “We’ve seen an ever-increasing growth for Niftylift products in the region even given the fierce market competition,” says Thomas. “This surge in demand is largely due to the heightened awareness of safety standards in the region and we are internationally renowned at Niftylift for our advanced safety features, such as SiOPS (sustained involuntary operation prevention system), load-sensing, and tilt-sensing technologies.”
To support growing demand, Niftylift is establishing a regional office in Dubai, serving as a hub for direct sales and support for key account rental companies. This will strengthen its partnerships in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, and expand its customer base in Saudi Arabia, a key growth market.
Niftylift also maintains close relationships with customers through regular face-to-face meetings and participation in industry events, including sponsorship of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Middle East Conference 2024 in Riyadh.
“The Middle East’s transition to a sustainable future hinges on innovative technologies, such as hydrogen-electric equipment,” Thomas concludes. “As a leader in this field, we at Niftylift are committed to empowering the region’s construction industry to achieve ambitious decarbonisation goals.
Minerals Development Oman (MDO) has signed a key mining concession agreement with the Ministry of Energy and Minerals (MEM).
The agreement grants MDO the rights to explore and develop strategic minerals within concession area 51F, located in the Al Wusta Governorate, covering 2,156 sq km in the Wilayat of Mahout. This area contains valuable deposits of silica, limestone, and dolomite, all of which are critical for industrial growth and economic diversification in Oman.
Silica, which is in high demand due to its essential role in industries such as glass manufacturing, renewable energy technologies (including solar panels), and energy storage, is a key focus of this agreement. In 2021, the glass industry became the largest consumer of silica sand in the region, and this demand is expected to grow. According to a report by Syndicated Analytics, the GCC silica sand market is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 6.7% from 2022 to 2027, potentially reaching US$513.5mn by 2027.
The new concession positions MDO to become Oman’s first silica sand miner. Silica sand, valued for its high purity (above 97% naturally in this site), strength, and non-reactive properties, is critical for industries such as glass, solar technology, and chemicals. The agreement underscores MDO's and MEM’s confidence in the long-term commercial potential of the concession area.
With the addition of this new concession, Minerals Development Oman’s (MDO) total concession area now covers 24,119 sq km.
Strategic projects
MDO is not just an asset owner but also a driving force for regional mining sector growth. Each project is designed to create value for investors while delivering tangible benefits to local communities through job creation and economic empowerment.
In 2024, MDO launched several strategic exploration projects targeting key minerals, including copper, chromite, gypsum, limestone, dolomite, salt, and hard silica. Earlier this year, the company broke ground on the Lasil and Al Baydha Copper Mines Redevelopment Project in Sohar, Liwa, which aims to produce 800,000 tonnes of copper ore annually, supported by a confirmed 2.78 million tonnes of commercial-grade copper reserves.
In the coming months, MDO is set to begin construction on the Yanqul Copper Project, managed by its subsidiary Mazoon Mining LLC. Located in the Yanqul region, Mazoon Mining received exclusive rights from the Ministry of Energy and Minerals in 2022 to explore, develop, and produce copper concentrates, with gold as a secondary by-product. Following detailed feasibility studies, the Canadian firm Lycopodium has been appointed as the EPCM contractor, with construction expected to commence by the end of 2024. This project represents a significant milestone for MDO, positioning Oman as an emerging player in copper production and advancing the nation’s economic diversification strategy.
Nasser Al Maqbali, CEO of MDO, remarked, "This agreement underscores MDO’s commitment to harnessing the nation’s mineral wealth to create investment opportunities, generate employment, and drive sustainable industrial development. Our exploration of silica resources reflects Oman’s untapped potential to support critical industries, especially those related to the energy transition.
With these projects, MDO is becoming a key player in the region’s mining industry and helping Oman achieve its goals of economic diversification and sustainable growth. By focusing on strategic minerals and building impactful partnerships, we are committed to boosting the mining sector’s role in the national economy."
Global technology intelligence firm ABI Research has completed its 2024 Manufacturers’ Technology Adoption & Attitudes Survey, gathering insights from 461 manufacturing decision-makers across the United States, Malaysia, and Germany. The survey reveals key trends and attitudes surrounding the technological landscape in the manufacturing sector.
A significant finding is the widespread belief among respondents that cloud platforms are essential for real-time collaboration with suppliers, distributors, and partners. According to the survey, 76% of respondents have already implemented cloud-based solutions to enhance data accessibility and improve supply chain efficiency.
Additional applications of cloud platforms include remote monitoring of production processes and the efficient management and analysis of production data.
New insights
These insights highlight the growing role of cloud technology in modern manufacturing, as companies increasingly rely on digital solutions to streamline operations and boost efficiency.
“Manufacturers are leveraging cloud platforms, especially hybrid cloud solutions, to help increase production output and efficiency. Manufacturers are leveraging cloud-based supply chain applications to track inventory, shipments, and production status, to improve supply chain visibility and transparency. However, some fundamental challenges remain, such as the integration of legacy infrastructure and data security concerns, that continue to hinder the widespread adoption of cloud solutions in the manufacturing industry,” saidYih-Khai Wong, principal analyst with ABI Research.
Manufacturers are accelerating their digital transformation efforts, driven by the increasing demand for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) solutions, the expansion of smart IoT devices, and the surge in data generation across both on-premises infrastructure and public cloud platforms.
However, many manufacturers operate within heterogeneous technology environments, where various platforms and solutions are used throughout the manufacturing process. This complexity and the lack of unified technology standards often hinder real-time collaboration. A cloud-based enterprise data fabric architecture offers a solution by breaking down data silos and integrating data from multiple sources, enabling seamless real-time collaboration across the business.
“Cloud platforms provide flexibility and scalability for manufacturers to scale up or down, based on production and business needs. This will be crucial in ensuring a robust enterprise data fabric architecture, which allows manufacturers to foster real-time collaboration, enhancing the capability for remote monitoring and analysing production data more efficiently, ultimately increasing production innovation,” concluded Wong.
Daimler Truck Middle East Africa (DT MEA), a subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, has announced expanded responsibilities for 59 markets across the Middle East and Africa
“This strategic move positions us to strengthen our regional presence and ensure unparalleled service for our customers alongside our strong partners,” said Michael Dietz, CEO and president of Daimler Truck Middle East Africa. “We look forward to the opportunities this new chapter brings as we continue to grow across these diverse and important markets.”
The new broader regional role will see DT MEA move even closer to its partners and customers to ensure continued delivery of products and services across all markets. The new regional remit has also been described as a further commitment to delivering quality Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Mercedes-Benz Buses and FUSO Trucks and Buses for its customers.