WFES: united front for clean energy
Abu Dhabi, 24.01.2011 - REEEP International Secretariat
REEEP, REN21 and the International Institute for Sustainable Development each enjoyed a podium on the IRENA stand at the 2011 World Future Energy Summit (WFES) in Abu Dhabi. “By kindly hosting these key clean energy organisations on their stand at WFES, the International Renewable Energy Agency really sent a clear signal that collaboration is the way forward in driving the low-carbon energy transition,” notes Marianne Osterkorn, “and REEEP was gratified to be present on one of the busiest stands at the show. Showing a united front was good for everyone involved.”
 "WFES 2011 - Irena stand")
The IRENA stand was one of the busiest at the WFES exhibition and incorporated the presence of REEEP, REN21 and IISD.
Against the background of a five-fold increase in investment in renewable energy globally since 2009, the WFES has quickly grown to be one of the leading global forums for clean energy and related technologies. Prominent speakers during the 2011 event included Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the CEO of Masdar, Ban Ki Moon, the UN’s Secretary General, the Presidents of Iceland and Pakistan, the Prime Minister of Portugal, as well as representatives from the finance, industrial and NGO sectors. More than 25,000 visitors attended over the four-day period from January 17th-20th.
The event also attracted more than 600 exhibitors, with highlights including the chance to test drive an electric Mercedes A Class, and the opportunity to walk inside the UAE’s largest water tank. Click here for more detail on the WFES and its outcomes.
The host of the World Future Energy Summit is Masdar, the UAE-based renewable energy company comprised of five units including Masdar Institute, an independent, research-driven university and Masdar City, the new development in Abu Dhabi aspiring to be one of the most sustainable cities in the world. WFES visitors had the chance to view the Masdar City site and see its first block of buildings for themselves. Click here for a reegle blog article about the tour.