MENA electricity generators raised total capacity to almost 350GW by the end of 2013 from 334.5GW at end-2012, according to MEES estimates, a 4.4% increase. This was less than most countries’ demand growth rates, and governments last year announced plans for significant further capacity additions.
While the region overall has a surfeit of hydrocarbons, governments face three major problems in power generation: fuel diversity, subsidies, and energy efficiency. Oman, for example, last year announced a fundamental review of energy policy because “the present double-digit rates of growth of electricity demand might not be sustainable” (MEES, 10 May 2013). Other governments are addressing these problems less publicly: but a number announced major policy shifts in 2013. Last year’s project awards also reflected shifting priorities. (CONTINUED - 1872 WORDS)
