The Global Organization Covers Nearly 80% of Total Global Electricity Demand and About 21% of Total Global Production:

GCCIA Hosts Annual GO15 Meeting in Dammam; Emphasizes International Cooperation and Strategic Initiatives Towards a Resilient Energy Transition

 

Dammam, Saudi Arabia, 29 October 2024: The GCC Interconnection Authority (GCCIA) successfully hosted and convened the annual GO15 meeting, which represents nearly 80% of total global electricity demand and about 21% of total global production. This event brought together the world’s leading power grid operators at the Dammam Conference Center in Saudi Arabia.

 

The meeting was part of the international forum ‘Powering the Future Toward Net Zero’, which was inaugurated by His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province. Organized in collaboration with EPRI, GO15, and Med-TSO, the forum aimed to drive discussions on the future of the energy sector and foster alignment on net-zero goals through technological advancements, market development, and strengthened regional interconnections.

 

During the GO15 meeting, key industry leaders discussed strategies for enhancing energy security, improving grid resiliency, and accelerating the integration of renewable energy amid growing challenges such as climate change and rising energy demands. GO15 serves as a platform to drive collaborative efforts and tackle critical power grid issues, fostering international cooperation.

 

In his opening remarks, Eng. Ahmed Ali Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, highlighted the significance of the GO15 meeting in addressing global energy challenges. He stated, “It is an honor to welcome esteemed leaders and experts from across the globe to the GO15 meeting. As we gather here in Dammam, we are reminded of our collective responsibility to ensure energy security and resilience, which is crucial for the socio-economic growth of our regions and beyond.”

 

He continued, “The outcomes of this meeting are vital to advancing our shared mission of strengthening the reliability and resilience of interconnected power networks. Our discussions will not only focus on enhancing the integration of renewable energy but also on accelerating digital transformation and adopting innovative solutions to tackle the pressing challenges posed by climate change. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among our members, we can address these issues holistically and build a future-ready grid.”

 

Al Ebrahim also emphasized the importance of international cooperation, stating, “This gathering underlines our commitment to expanding strategic partnerships and deepening our understanding of energy dynamics globally. Together, we have the potential to redefine how we approach energy management and sustainability. By uniting our expertise and aligning our strategies, we can achieve a resilient, reliable, and sustainable energy future that is capable of meeting evolving demands.”

 

Al Ebrahim concluded his remarks by expressing his optimism for the future, “I am confident that the insights and strategies developed during this meeting will shape our path forward, reinforcing our ability to navigate the complexities of the energy transition. Let us seize this opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and make meaningful strides towards a more secure and sustainable energy landscape for future generations.”

 

The meeting’s agenda included a review of the results and recommendations of the GO15 Strategic Work Group, with discussions covering real-time operation of future grids, stability and inertia, black-start capabilities, resilience of electricity infrastructure, and resource adequacy. Participants highlighted significant growth trends in energy storage systems (ESS/BESS) and explored initiatives to expedite regulatory permits.

 

The GO15 organization, which serves over 80% of the global electricity demand, continues to advocate for international collaboration among its members. The meeting concluded with the announcement of Jung Dong Hee, CEO of Korea Power Exchange (KPX), as the incoming President of GO15 for 2025. Manu Asthana, CEO of PJM, and SR Narasimhan, CMD of Grid India, will serve as Vice Presidents. The next annual meeting is planned for 2025, with the venue to be announced later this year.

 

This international forum and GO15 meeting collectively underscore the critical importance of collaboration and strategic initiatives in ensuring a secure and sustainable energy future.

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‘Powering the Future Toward Net Zero’ Forum Concludes in Dammam with Compelling Message to Intensify Partnerships in GCC to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions

• GO15 and EPRI Forge Alliance to Enhance Grid Resilience; GCCIA Partners with Onaizah Colleges to Empower Future Energy Leaders in the Gulf
• Forum Urges Regional Collaboration for Carbon Neutrality, Showcases Grid Flexibility and AI for Energy Transition

The two-day ‘Powering the Future Toward Net Zero’ forum, organized by the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA) in collaboration with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), GO15, and Med-TSO, concluded today (Monday, 28 October 2024) in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia.

Held under the patronage of HRH Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, in the presence of HRH Prince Saud bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Eastern Province, the forum brought together key stakeholders from the global energy sector to address the future of the energy industry.

HRH Prince Saud bin Nayef and HRH Prince Saud bin Bandar received a commemorative trophy during the forum as a token of appreciation for their pioneering role in securing a sustainable future for generations to come. This recognition reflects the shared commitment across the Gulf region to collaborative efforts in achieving sustainability goals and reinforcing energy resilience.

Opening Speeches and Sponsor Recognition

Opened on October 27 with a welcoming speech from Engineer Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, who emphasized the pivotal role of the Gulf states in advancing sustainable energy solutions, the forum also witnessed remarks from Engineer Yaqub Al Kiyumi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at GCCIA, who stressed the importance of strategic collaborations and regional interconnections in achieving energy security and sustainability goals.

HE Jim Sindle, Consul General of the U.S. Embassy in KSA, also addressed the forum, focusing on the longstanding energy partnership between the GCC and the United States. A short film was presented to highlight GCC-US relations and the power sector's outlook.

Speaking at the conclusion of the event, Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, remarked, “This forum has reaffirmed the Gulf region’s commitment to sustainability and collaboration. The insights gained and partnerships established here will significantly contribute to the region’s efforts to lead in the global journey toward net zero.”

Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim added: “The forum’s focus on technology, market dynamics, and policy frameworks will definitely pave the way for actionable strategies that align with the Gulf’s vision of a sustainable energy future. We firmly believe that the key outcomes, partnerships, and commitments will set the stage for ongoing efforts to achieve a net-zero energy system.”

Day One Sessions and Key MoUs

The first panel, titled Power Sector Policy for Achieving Net Zero’, was moderated by Neva Espinoza, Senior Vice President at EPRI. Speakers included HE Engineer Khalid Almehaid, Undersecretary for Sustainability & Climate Change at the KSA Ministry of Energy; HE Tariq Hamane, CEO of Morocco’s ONEE; and HE Engineer Ahmed Al Kaabi, Assistant Undersecretary for Electricity, Water and Future Energy at the UAE Ministry of Energy. Discussions focused on policy frameworks essential for advancing net-zero goals.

HRH Prince Saud bin Nayef and HRH Prince Saud bin Bandar honored the forum’s sponsors. Hitachi Energy was recognized as the Platinum Sponsor, Omexom as the Diamond Sponsor, Midal Cables as the Gold Sponsor, GE Vernova as the Silver Sponsor, and Energoprojekt Entel Ltd as the Silver Sponsor.

Two significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed on the first day. A MoU between GO15 and EPRI marked a key step toward collaborative advancements in grid resilience and sustainable energy solutions. This partnership aims to drive innovation and strengthen power systems across regions. Additionally, the GCCIA signed an MoU with Onaizah Colleges, fostering collaboration in research, training, and skill development within the energy sector to empower the next generation of energy leaders in the Gulf region.

Day Two Highlights and Technical Sessions

The second day of the forum, October 28, focused on ‘Crucial Technical Pillars of Energy Transition’. Discussions delved into the complexities of variability challenges, solutions for flexibility, market reforms, and the pivotal role of advanced technologies.

A panel session on ‘Variability Challenges and Flexibility Solutions’ explored strategies to address the challenges posed by energy variability and discussed solutions to enhance grid flexibility. Carlos Gascó Travesedo, Executive Director of the Department of Energy, Abu Dhabi, and Dr. Lumi Adisa, Director of Energy Systems at NEOM, presented key insights into the evolving energy landscape.

Another panel session titled ‘Grid Planning and Operation for a Net-Zero Grid’, was moderated by Dr. Aidan Tuohy, Director at EPRI. The session focused on integrating renewable energy sources, optimizing grid flexibility, and implementing advanced technologies. Speakers included Eng. Aisha Almohammadi, Head of Transmission Network Planning at Kahramaa, Qatar, and Omar Al Ameri from EWEC, Abu Dhabi.

In addition, several technology highlights were presented, showcasing innovations by Omexom and Midal Cables that support grid efficiency and enhance power quality.

The day also featured a panel session on Grid-Enhancing Technologies and another panel session titled ‘AI in the Power Sector’, where experts discussed the role of digitalization and artificial intelligence in improving grid resilience and efficiency. Speakers included Dr. Vera Silva, Chief Strategy and Technology Officer at GE Vernova, and Dr. Sankara Subramanian from Saft who provided valuable insights on emerging technologies.

Significance of the Forum and Future Impact

Throughout the two days, the forum emphasized the importance of regional and global collaboration in addressing the challenges of the energy transition. It provided a platform for key players to exchange knowledge, explore innovative solutions, and strengthen partnerships aimed at creating a resilient and carbon-neutral energy system.

In his closing remarks, Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim emphasized the importance of deepening international cooperation between power companies and research institutions to find solutions and develop innovative technologies for the electricity grids of the future, focused on renewable and clean energy to achieve net-zero goals.

He also praised the ongoing collaboration and partnership between GCCIA and EPRI, highlighting key initiatives such as the launch of the EPRI Gulf Research Institute and GCCIA’s membership on EPRI's Board of Directors. This reflects the international organization’s focus on the Gulf region’s promising development and its significance in enriching scientific research and innovation. These efforts aim to achieve advanced technologies that serve the region, support the establishment of new technology industries for Gulf networks, and potentially allow for the future export of these technologies.

GCCIA to Host International Forum to Drive the Energy Transition Towards Net Zero

Under the generous patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, will be held the upcoming international forum titled ‘Powering the Future Toward Net Zero’, the forum will be organized by The GCC Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), in collaboration with EPRI, GO15, and Med-TSO, on 27-28 October at the Kempinski Al Othman Hotel in Al Khobar.

Building on the momentum of the successful Energy Storage Forums held in 2022 and 2023, this year’s forum is set to be a significant platform for advancing discussions on the future of the energy sector. With a focus on technology, market development, regional interconnections, storage solutions, and resource adequacy for achieving a net-zero grid, the forum is poised to foster collaboration and dialogue among global energy leaders.

As the cornerstone of the Gulf region’s energy landscape, GCCIA plays a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and security of power supply across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. By interconnecting the power grids of these countries, GCCIA has enabled seamless electricity trade and shared resources, promoting economic benefits and grid stability across the region. This interconnected infrastructure positions the GCC countries at the forefront of energy transition, offering flexibility and efficiency critical for supporting a future net-zero grid.

Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, underscored the organization’s commitment to advancing regional and global energy collaboration: “At GCCIA, we are dedicated to enabling the Gulf region’s energy transition through stronger interconnections, efficient power trading, and regional cooperation. This forum represents a vital opportunity to unite global thought leaders and decision-makers in shaping the energy strategies of tomorrow. Our work towards a resilient and sustainable energy future continues to be at the heart of what we do, and we look forward to engaging with key stakeholders to drive the transformation needed to achieve net-zero targets.”

 

EPRI’s Role in the Forum

EPRI, an independent, non-profit energy R&D institute, will play a pivotal role throughout the event. Dr. Arshad Mansoor, president and CEO of EPRI, will deliver a keynote address focusing on the global energy landscape and how strategic collaboration can drive net-zero goals. EPRI will also lead multiple sessions, including discussions on the technical pillars necessary for the energy transition and insights into grid optimization to support a resilient and affordable net-zero future.

“EPRI is honored to collaborate with GCCIA, GO15, and Med-TSO in this essential dialogue on transitioning to a sustainable energy future,” said Dr. Mansoor. “Our research and global collaboration continue to support the energy industry in overcoming the challenges of flexibility and reliability as we collectively strive to meet economy-wide net-zero targets.”

Neva Espinoza, senior vice president of Energy Supply and Low-Carbon Resources and chief generation officer at EPRI, will moderate key sessions addressing power sector strategy for achieving net-zero and accelerating decarbonization efforts through global collaboration and innovation. These sessions aim to provide actionable insights on balancing affordability, resilience, and sustainability, especially as the energy sector integrates more renewable resources and deploys other advanced generation technologies.

Daniel Brooks, senior vice president of Energy Delivery and Customer Solutions at EPRI, will lead the session on ‘Regional Grid Optimization to Enable a Reliable, Affordable Net-Zero Future’, a critical discussion that will explore the role of strong regional grid infrastructure in achieving net-zero goals, and the ‘Showcase Technology Expo: Grid Enhancing Technologies (GETs)’, Brooks' sessions will focus on new technologies, advanced planning, and operational capabilities necessary to enhance grid resilience and affordability, alongside market transformations needed to support the energy transition.

Additional EPRI speakers include Neil Wilmshurst, chief nuclear strategy officer and managing director of EPRI Gulf, and Aidan Tuohy, director of research and development for the Integrated Grid and Energy Systems sector. They will cover emerging technologies in the areas of artificial intelligence and grid operations and planning, respectively.

 

A Global Gathering for the Energy Sector

Attendees can expect a diverse array of sessions, including discussions led by distinguished experts from GCCIA, GO15, Med-TSO, and EPRI, covering critical topics such as grid planning, market reforms, the role of AI in grid operations, and the deployment of grid-enhancing technologies. Esteemed speakers, including CEOs, senior advisors, and government representatives from the GCC, North America, Europe, and Asia, will bring unique perspectives to these discussions, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of strategies to enable a reliable and sustainable energy transition.

Besides Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA and GO15 Steering Board member, GO15 (the association of the Very Large Power Grid Operators) will be represented by Manu Asthana, CEO of PJM (USA), and several Senior VPs from KPX (South Korea), RTE (France) or Terna (Italy). According to Bruno Meyer, GO15 Secretary General: “The growth in electricity demand, combined with the increase in the share of intermittent renewables, will require massive investments in power grids infrastructure worldwide. Political and societal choices must already be made to meet this challenge.”

This forum will assist in advancing the shared goals of energy transition and net-zero commitments, building on the outcomes of COP28 and fostering collaboration across borders to secure a cleaner, more resilient energy future.

-ENDS-

About GCCIA

GCCIA is a crucial entity in the Gulf region’s energy landscape, promoting energy trade and enhancing the reliability of power systems across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. By interlinking the power grids of these nations, GCCIA is driving forward a reliable and efficient energy market within the region.

About GO15

GO15, the Association of the Very Large Power Grid Operators, serves more than half of the world’s electricity demand. Created in 2004 after several blackouts had occurred, this unique organization is dedicated to high-level exchanges. It offers industry leaders the opportunity to address major strategic and technical issues affecting the safety, reliability, and sustainability of power systems. Convinced that the transmission grid and a resilient power system are key to the energy transition, GO15 aims to favor bilateral and multilateral international collaboration to prepare a sustainable future.