The Minister of Oil inaugurates the Competitive Energy Systems Symposium

​

H.E. Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Oil, inaugurated the Competitive Energy Systems Symposium on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at the Bahrain Diplomat Hotel with the participation of a number of officials, interested engineers and academics, local, regional and international. The event was organized by the Gulf Downstream Association (GDA) and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers in cooperation with the National Oil and Gas Authority (NOGA) and with the support of a number of relevant specialized entities.

In his opening speech, H.E. the Minister welcomed all attendees and participants in this important forum, which highlights several topics related to energy sustainability and competitiveness in light of the rapid global changes in the field of energy and renewable energy. Praising H.E., the role of GDA in organizing many specialized events in the field of energy, such as conferences, exhibitions and seminars aimed at enhancing the importance of the oil sector and striving to develop it and maintain it through active participation in various meetings, in order to learn about various experiences and knowledge and the latest modern technologies.

H.E. the Minister of Oil said that energy represents a fundamental need for the prosperity, growth and development of all countries. Adding that the world today is witnessing many changes and challenges at all levels, which emphasizes the importance of focusing in this period on innovation, creativity and training of human resources that are capable to change. Also, to provide research, reports and specialized studies in this vital sector and find advanced solutions and invest renewable energies such as solar, wind and others to create new integrated opportunities through which to improve, develop, prosper and sustain energy.

The forum included several topics, most importantly is Horizon Technology, which supports existing industries in unexpected ways, offering advanced solutions and new opportunities to improve maintenance and reliability. Unique Applications of Solar Energy that includes artificial photosynthesis; solar thermal applications to produce chemicals and fuels; desalination, including approaches for production of hydrogen. The Electrification of Chemical Industry, which discusses recent research and studies on innovative ways to reactivate carbon and non-traditional feedstocks, such as carbon dioxide and shale gas.