92% of regional business leaders say UAE should
invest in alternative energy
Sep 2 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Middle East and North Africa
Business Report, Amman, Jordan
As the impending energy crunch presents a looming challenge to the Middle
East and the climate crisis calls for action, a recent poll conducted by
Leaders Presents reports that 92% of regional business leaders believe the
UAE should invest in the research and implementation of alternative and
renewable energy in the form of solar or wind power, bio-fuels or other
sources. A peaceful Atomic Energy program came in as a close second option,
with 69% in agreement.
The survey, which reflects the opinions of nearly 300 regional business
leaders and key decision makers from across the region, revealed that 81% of
regional executives agree that an energy shortage is a concern and that
placing an emphasis on the research and creation of alternatives is a good
idea.
"It makes sense to make a responsible effort in the direction of creating
alternative energy sources, not only because it will eventually be a
necessity, but because all signs say it is better for the environment, as
well," says Lucy Mountain, Conference Director of Leaders in Dubai Business
Forum. "What is good for the environment is also good for people -- I think
everyone can agree that less pollution in the air would be better for all of
us."
Recent analysis has concluded that national annual peak demand for
electricity is likely to rise to more than 40,000 megawatts by 2020,
reflecting a cumulative annual growth rate of about nine percent from 2007.
Burning crude oil/and or diesel is logistically possible to keep up with
demands however it is not an economical or environmentally-friendly option,
and natural gas reserves are not enough to cover the demand.
Evaluation of alternative energies including solar and wind suggested that,
while these options are being deployed within the UAE, even aggressive
development could only supply a small portion (4-5%) of peak electricity
demand by 2020, revealing the pursuit of other sustainable alternatives to
be vital to a future renewable energy plan. Atomic energy for peaceful
civilian uses leaves no carbon imprint like oil or coal and remains the most
likely viable option in the near future; however the disposal of radioactive
nuclear waste is also a huge issue that would need to be addressed.
Keynote speakers at the 2008 Leaders in Dubai Business Forum, to take place
from November 16 to 18 at the Dubai International Exhibition and Convention
Center, include Mohamed ElBaradei, James Wolfensohn and Rudolph Giuliani.
The forum is supported by Wasl, Citibank, Amlak Finance, Etisalat, Al Mal
Capital, Nokia, the InterContinental Hotel and Cadillac. Media Partners
include Al-Arabiya News Channel and CNN.
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