ABU DHABI, March 9 (NNN-WAM) -- The GCC countries will require 100,000MW of additional power over the next 10 years to meet demand, according to the World Energy Council.

Experts also say that the region will also require additional investments in water desalination projects.

"It is estimated that USD 100 billion will be invested in Middle East water and desalination projects over the next 10 years. As water becomes an increasingly precious resource on which the well-being of future generations depends, issues of water quality, quantity, management and planning are essential to the future of the regions population," said Glenn Ensor, director of POWER-GEN Middle East, the premier conference and exhibition for the power generation, transmission and distribution and water industries.

The event will be held in Bahrain next year.

From Feb 4-6 2008, POWER-GEN Middle East will receive over 3000 industry professionals, who will gather for three days to participate in the industry's leading conference and experience the latest developments and ideas for the future of the Middle East power and water sectors.

"Five per cent of the world's population lives in the Middle East, but the region possesses only 1 per cent of the renewable water resources of this planet.

Bahrain, says Ensor, has seen an increase in water consumption of 25 million gallons per day over the last five years. Investment is required for existing water pipes and waste water systems and spending on waste water systems will double in the course of the next 10 years in Saudi Arabia alone.

POWER-GEN Middle East 2008 will offer an even greater appeal, as the event further develops its interests in the region's water industry.

With power and water hand-in-hand like no other region in the world, the natural development for the event will broaden its appeal, without diluting the quality of its attendance.

The POWER-GEN Middle East conference is a key forum for senior executives and industry leaders to discuss a range of topics, from the region's energy markets, latest technologies and issues relating to power generation, transmission and distribution and water, in order to meet the challenge of the rapid growth in demand for power and water.

Companies and consultants from the power generation, transmission and distribution and water industries are invited to present their new developments, technologies and case studies at POWER-GEN Middle east. More information on how to become a conference speaker can be obtained through the event website www.power-gen-middleeast.com.

The supporting organisation of POWER-GEN Middle East 2008 already include the Kingdom of Bahrain Ministry of Electricity and Water, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Independent Power Producers Forum has also displayed their support for this growing event.

Event director Ensor said: "We are delighted that POWER-GEN Middle East is returning to Bahrain from Feb 4 to 6 2008. The enthusiasm and support of the Bahraini Government and industry authorities will ensure the success of the event."

"The development of the event to incorporate a greater relationship with the water industry is important to ensure POWER-GEN Middle East remains the region's premier event for the power generation, transmission and distribution and water industries."

POWER-GEN Middle East is owned and produced by PennWell Corporation, the leading conference organisers and publishers in the power generation, oil and gas and other strategic markets around the world.

The Bahrain International Exhibition Centre will host POWER-GEN Middle East and will provide a great setting for this prestigious event.

With over 100 expected exhibitors and over 3000 expected visitors from over 50 countries, POWER-GEN Middle East has become the most important annual meeting place for international power executives with interests in the MENA region.