JEDDAH: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is expected to increase its electrical power capacity by 49 percent through 2019 to meet growing residential and business energy demands. Power consumption is projected to reach 220 terawatt-hours per year by the end of the forecast period with a per capita consumption increase of 9 percent. The development of the power sector has become a top priority within the Kingdom's development plans given rapid population growth and the boom in real estate and other energy-intensive industries. This has opened up various opportunities for electricity and power business ventures which will be highlighted during the 14th Saudi International Electrical Engineering, Power Generation and Distribution Exhibition (Elenex) taking place from May 29 to June 1, 2011 at the Riyadh Convention and Exhibitions Centre. Held under the patronage of the Saudi Ministry of Water and Electricity, Saudi Elenex 2011 will run simultaneously with Saudi Luminex - the 11th International Lighting Equipment Show; Saudi Aircon – the 12th International Air Conditioning, Ventilation, Heating and Refrigeration Show; and Saudi Water Technology - the 9th International Exhibition for Water Technology, Desalination Plants and Accessories. Forming the ELAW group of shows, these events provide a comprehensive platform for exploring potential power, lighting, water and heating, ventilation and air conditioning deals and gaining a strategic position in the Saudi utilities sector. As the leading electricity show in the Kingdom, Saudi Elenex 2011 is expected to receive exhibitors from the Kingdom, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas and Asia. The ELAW shows will enable attendees to follow local business trends, discuss vital industry issues, build and/or expand their market share, launch new products, and align their offerings with the Saudi long-term infrastructure development plans.
