The Dubai Global Energy Forum 2011 will serve as the platform to commence discussions on Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) to drive economic prosperity and increase investments in the energy sector, in line with the strategy of the Dubai government 2015 to enhance sustainable economic development in the Emirate and build and establish strong partnerships with the private sector.
The first of its kind held in Dubai – this event is organised by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, from 17 to 19 April 2011.
HE Saeed Mohamed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, said, “Foremost amongst the advantages of PPPs are the rapid and effective delivery of infrastructure projects that add value as they combine the best that the public and private sectors offer. DGEF is the ideal platform to nurture and effectively deliver such partnerships that will change the criteria of building energy infrastructures on the local, regional and possibly international levels as well.”
“The Forum will focus on sustainability and enables discussion on the benefits of PPPs, by integrating design and construction of public infrastructure with financing, operations, maintenance and upgrades. Dubai Global Energy Forum 2011 will bring together experts and captains of industry from various energy sectors with government leaders to realise the added value that PPPs will bring to the region. Integrating and combining the skills and expertise of the public and private sectors will create new synergies that will drive prosperity and operational performance while further improving the competitive advantage of local and regional economies.”
“PPPs have become highly-effective means of achieving results and further driving innovation and diversity in the provision of public services. By making the most of public assets while generating jobs amongst the private sector, PPPs offer a win-win proposition for everyone,” added HE Saeed Mohamed Al Tayer.
An example of a PPP currently being planned is Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s (DEWA’s) Hassyan power plant. The first consultant service contract has been initiated for the first plant to produce electricity and water by an independent producer in Dubai. A special study will be carried out to on the strategic and general factors pertaining to this essential initiative.
The plant will produce 1,500 MW of electricity and marks Dubai’s first foray in setting and creating new investment fields to encourage private sector involvement in strategic projects. It will be based on a competitively-commercial model, using the latest available technologies to fulfil the future energy needs of Dubai and taking into account the needs of the environment to build a comprehensive and robust infrastructure for the Emirate.
The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy has been formed as the governing body to seek out and develop such fruitful partnerships. Dubai has an approved efficient and proactive regulatory framework in place, paving the way for more PPP investment between the public and private sectors. Studies have proven that additional added values are created as a result of the growing involvement of the private sector in economic activities.
