The inaugural Solar Arabia Summit, which aims to highlight possible challenges and examine the benefits of solar energy in the region, will take place in Riyadh on Oct. 23-24. The initiative is co-organized by French business information group naseba and King Saud University in Riyadh. Both the Ministry of Water and Electricity, and the Saudi Electricity Company have confirmed their support, with the pioneering platform also attracting key decision makers from prominent Saudi Arabian companies including Saudi Oger and the Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (Apicorp). "The Middle East is seeing huge interest in investment in renewable energy, and Saudi Arabia's true potential is yet to be realized. The Solar Arabia platform is a foundation that will allow leading players to contribute to the development of the Kingdom's alternative energy sector," said Nic Watson, managing director Sales and Marketing of naseba. In view of Saudi Arabia's $100 billion spending drive for renewable energy resources, the two days features industry experts including Ulrich Dill - VP of Home Appliances and Solar Energy, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and Lex Helsin - President and CEO of the Beautiful Earth Group. The UN Development Programme has also extended its support, with its deputy resident representative, Kishan Khoday, featuring as a speaker. Key topics being discussed include the Kingdom's long term vision for the sector, and its true potential as a Middle Eastern hub for solar energy generation. Alongside the summit, an exclusive exhibition is showcasing the latest solar products, services and technology. Among the solar product manufacturers exhibiting are ENN Solar (China), Conergy, SMA Solar Technology (both Germany), Amonix, SunPower Corporation (both USA), and DelSolar (Taiwan). Leading global companies Juwi (Germany), Sequel Power (USA), Solairedirect, Alstom Power (both France), Lanco Solar (India) and ABB Group (Switzerland) are confirmed as sponsors.
