Under the patronage of his Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, EQUATE Petrochemical Company, Kuwait's first worldwide joint-venture in this industry, sponsored the Sixth Middle East and North Africa Renewable Energy Conference (MENAREC 6).

Including the involvement of over 400 energy specialists from all over the world, MENAREC 6 went over a number of topics, such as promoting renewable resource, forming regional partnerships, investment chances and others.

EQUATE President & CEO Mohammad Husain stated, "While renewable resource is an intriguing sector, we have to remember that we are hydrocarbon-based economies. In other words, when we choose to have both eco-friendly and conventional energy, will we be taking on ourselves? At the same time, what kind of a balance will we be having in between both energy sectors?".

Husain added, Kuwait is aspiring to have 15% of its energy needs from wind and solar sources by 2030, which is a very ambitious objective. Currently, the most concrete sustainable energy effort in the region is being performed by the UAE through the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, which is considered the biggest of its kind globally. The obstacles facing sustainable energy in this area are mainly relevant to the business model.Another challenge is relevant to technology in terms of diverse utilization and who will take the leadership, as well as forming partnerships between governments and organizations. Finally, we must consider innovation in renewable energy and making a difference for overall sustainability.

Husain added, "In terms of EQUATE's involvement in renewable energy, our upcoming new head offices will rely on solar power to produce three to five percent of its electrical needs.".

The Middle East and North Africa Renewable Energy Conference (MENAREC) was born in 2004 and has actually since ended up being the significant platform for renewable energy through the region. MENAREC 6 is organised by the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) and the Energy and Building Research Centre (EBRC) in collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency. www.mena-rec6.com.