RIYADH —

The three-day Saudi Elenex and Saudi Aircon Exhibitions wound up on a high note Tuesday (May 16) with the participation of more than 12 countries from around the world, reflecting the importance of the power sector in general and the major play the exhibition is playing by attracting leading companies, and contributing in highlighting the important challenges and achievements that encounters the electricity and air-conditioning sectors locally and internationally.

Khalid Alamdar, Director of Sales and Marketing at Riyadh Exhibition Company Ltd., said: “ This year we are celebrating the launch of the 20th edition of this exhibition, which has become a preferred platform for the most interested and experienced experts and the most specialized local and regional electricity exhibitions to explore the latest technologies that drive the sector forward.’’

With the support of the diamond sponsorship of the Saudi Electricity Company, and participating sponsor Saudi Standards Metrology and Quality Org. (SASO), as well as the participation of 112 companies, the exhibition showcased the promising investment opportunities in the renewable energy and techniques field. In addition to offering the latest air conditioning solutions and products and their positive impact on the environment and rationalization in the consumption of electricity.

Electricity demand in Saudi Arabia is increasing due to economic and demographic growth. About 70% of electricity consumption in Saudi Arabia is on account of air conditioners. To keep pace with population growth in Saudi Arabia, around 500,000 new homes are required. With rising number of residences, the demand for energy in residential segment is anticipated to double by 2030. Only 27% of buildings in Saudi Arabia are thermally insulated. In Jeddah, 85% of the buildings lack insulation, and the ratio is 72.6% in the Eastern Province and 50% in Riyadh. Lack of thermal insulation causes a lot of energy wastage in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Elenex and Saudi Aircon Exhibitions were held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center. It was inaugurated in the presence of Eng. Mansour Al Qahtani, acting CEO of the Saudi Electricity Company, and Eng. Mansour Al Chautari, Vice Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce. — SG