Riyadh, 11 February 2025 — The 8th General Conference of the Arab Union of Electricity opened today in the Saudi capital Riyadh, under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy, with a wide range of officials, experts and specialists in the electricity sector from across the Arab world taking part. The conference aims to strengthen Arab integration in the electric power field, discuss future challenges, and showcase the latest innovations and sustainable technologies in power generation, transmission and distribution.

Saudi Leadership's Support for Developing the Energy Sector

In his opening remarks, Engineer Nasser Al-Qahtani, assistant minister of energy for electricity affairs, thanked the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continued support of the Kingdom's energy sector, and praised the efforts of Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman in achieving Arab electrical integration and developing power systems toward a more sustainable future.

Al-Qahtani said that, as part of Vision 2030, the Kingdom is implementing major power infrastructure projects with a focus on achieving the optimal energy mix, targeting 50% of electricity production from renewable energy and gas sources by 2030, which will help reduce emissions, lower reliance on oil, and strengthen energy security.

A Dialogue Platform for the Future of Electricity in the Arab World

Engineer Khalid Al-Ghamdi, CEO of the Saudi Electricity Company and conference chairman, said the conference is a vital platform for exchanging expertise and discussing the latest developments and innovations in electric power, including dialogue sessions and specialized workshops as well as an accompanying exhibition showcasing the sector's latest technologies and smart solutions.

Engineer Tarek Heman, chairman of the Arab Union of Electricity, stressed the importance of Arab electrical integration and the role of member states in supporting efforts to boost energy efficiency and achieve sustainability in the region.

At a Glance

  • Renewable integration: incorporating renewable energy sources into the Arab electricity grid.
  • Climate impact: the effect of climate change on power grid systems.
  • Innovation and AI: their role in developing the electricity sector.
  • Regulatory policy: legislation governing Arab electrical interconnection.

The event drew wide attendance from senior officials and energy experts from across the Arab world, making it a key venue for discussing ways to strengthen Arab cooperation in electricity and achieve a more sustainable, efficient energy future for the region.