Energy

Diesel generator export fall still marks comparative success

In spite of a substantial fall off in world exports of diesel generating sets up to 2000 kVA, the Middle East, comparatively, showed a more modest fall. Worldwide export figures show a US$2.5bn or 28.7 per cent fall compared to a 14.6 per cent fall in the Middle East (accounting for some US$237mn). According to Customs & Excise official statistics, exports from the UK to the Middle East fell by US$115mn (19 per cent) although their sales still outrank the rest of Europe. Surprisingly, the rest of Europe showed an increase in exports against the previous year by a handy US$52mn. By comparison, the US had a large fall of approximately US$105mn, China fell by US$43mn and Japan by US$26mn.

Two more gas turbines commissioned

Two new gas turbines with a total production capacity of 400 MW will be commissioned by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) before the end of the current year, according to DEWA managing director and CEO, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer. The utility will also commission two desalination units with a total production capacity of 160,000 litres of water, in addition to four auxiliary boilers according to Al Tayer. The units of power generation and water desalination project (Station M) have come into service this year to raise the production capacity of both electricity and desalinated water of DEWA.

Kuwait development plan 'on target'

A senior Kuwait government official has said that the quarterly report over its development plan would be referred to the cabinet in its next meeting ahead of preparing the bi-annual report next October.

50 per cent profit rise for Saudi Electricity

Saudi Electricity has posted a 50 per cent rise in second-quarter net profit thanks to lower costs and higher revenues with further gains expected after a rise in power tariffs for some users. The Gulfs largest utility by market value made US$285.3mn in the three months to the end of June compared with US$191mn riyals a year earlier, according to a statement to the Saudi bourse. This figure is 13 per cent higher than analysts forecasts.

Iran nuclear power plant launch 'imminent'

Ali Akbar Salehi, responsible for managing Irans atomic energy policy, has confirmed the launch of the Islamic republics first nuclear power plant. The plan was initially announced by Russia which has helped build the facility.