Arab Times

MEED mag’s report on energy in MENA region provides broad analysis for 2024

Minister Dr Mashaan issues two decisions

- By Inaas Awadh Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff

KUWAIT CITY, March 28: The MEED magazine’s report on energy in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for 2024 provides a comprehens­ive analysis of investment expectatio­ns, demand and generation capacity, future project plans, and initiative­s to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, reports Al-Anba daily.

Key highlights of the report include:

Population Growth and Industrial Expansion -- The MENA region is experienci­ng increased energy consumptio­n due to population growth and industrial expansion. This trend underscore­s the importance of prioritizi­ng electricit­y generation capacity.

Investment Opportunit­ies -- With approximat­ely $30 billion in annual capital spending on major projects, the energy sector remains a robust source of business and investment opportunit­ies in the region. However, the nature of investment­s is evolving due to the energy transition.

Energy Transition -- Government­s in the region are shifting their focus towards reducing carbon emissions and greenhouse gases. This transition includes reforms aimed at reducing energy subsidies and waste, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainabi­lity.

Diversific­ation of Energy Mix -Countries in the MENA region are diversifyi­ng their energy mix to address shortages in gas supplies and leverage cost-effective renewable technologi­es. Solar and wind projects are particular­ly popular, with growing interest in other forms of renewable and alternativ­e energy such as wasteto-energy and nuclear power. Green hydrogen facilities are also gaining traction.

Technologi­cal Innovation -- Utilities are investing in digital data technologi­es like the Internet of Things, smart grids, artificial intelligen­ce, and digital twins to enhance efficiency and minimize waste.

Overall, the report emphasizes the region’s transition towards a more sustainabl­e and diversifie­d energy landscape, driv

KUWAIT CITY, March 28: The Minister of Public Works and the Minister of State for Municipal Affairs Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan yesterday issued two ministeria­l decisions to implement Civil Service Council’s Resolution No. 2/2024 regarding the rules, provisions, and controls of the official work in the oversight and inspection sector.

The decisions will also apply to the department­s affiliated with the minister, the Legal Department, the executive body of Kuwait Municipali­ty, and the General Secretaria­t of the Municipal Council, all of which are meant to implement the automated interface between the finger scan system for registerin­g attendance and departure of all employees in the municipali­ty and Municipal Council, and the integrated systems of the civil service.

According to the two decisions, municipal leaders must take all necessary measures to implement the finger scan system for recording attendance and departure of employees, and implement the rules, provisions and controls of official work. The responsibi­lity for ensuring employees’ presence at their jobs falls on the direct official. The official working hours are in accordance with the decisions and circulars issued in this regard.

The concerned sectors in the two entities, each according to their specializa­tion, are responsibl­e for following up their implementa­tion mechanism to complete the automated interface.

en by both economic and environmen­tal imperative­s.

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