Qatar Science & Technology Park. Two of Qatar's important and leading establishments, Ras Abu Fontas Power and Desalination Plant and Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) will open their doors to technical tours on Feb. 4 as part of the upcoming POWER-GEN Middle East 2013 conference and exhibition on Feb. 4-6, 2013 to be held at Qatar National Convention Centre, Doha. The tours will provide a rare behind the scenes view of Ras Abu Fontas and QSTP's facilities and the various research and commercial technologies employed. Highlights will include presentations by Ras Abu Fontas plant management and QSTP's leading research centers such as ConocoPhillips Water Sustainability Center, Chevron Centre for Sustainable Energy Efficiency, ExxonMobil Research Qatar and Qatar Shell Research Centre. Both tours are optional and open to registered delegates at a cost €80 (Ras Abu Fontas) and €30 (QSTP). Like Ras Abu Fontas and QSTP, POWER-GEN Middle East is renowned for being the hub of applied research, innovation and entrepreneurship with a commitment to sharing and exchanging ideas about power and energy efficiency and maximizing regional and global business opportunities. Under the Patronage of Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Sada, Minister of Energy and Industry, the 11th annual POWER-GEN Middle East 2013 will explore new venture investments, intellectual property, enhanced technology solutions, management skills and innovative new products as it returns to Qatar National Convention Centre, Doha, Qatar on Feb. 4-6, 2013. Debbie Stanford-Kristiansen, International Events Director, PennWell Corporation – Middle East, said, “we expect a very successful event as our esteemed international speakers from the GCC region and around the world present innovative thinking for discussion, debate and deliberation about business, technology and financial challenges required for energy efficient development, investments and partnerships. We are also delighted to present an unparalleled exhibition that will showcase some of the most innovative technologies and viable, sustainable solutions to meet the region's growing energy challenges by leading established and growth companies". Significant energy-related projects as part of the 200 planned and announced valued between $100 million and $20 billion will also be major points of discussion as a total of $250 billion is expected to be pumped into the power sector in the Middle East and North Africa region over the next five years to meet regional electricity demand growth. — SG