Manama, Apr 22 (BNA): The two-day Bahrain Energy Forum 2014 is looking into three important aspects of the energy sector – opportunities and challenges in Bahrain’s energy projects until 2030, the Kingdom’s continuing role as a regional and global energy centre and the application of new energy management and technology, Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and Minister in Charge of Oil and Gas Affairs, said.

Delivering the opening keynote address, he said the forum offers insights in planning future energy policies, thus enabling tracking the changing energy market and latest trends.

“This is indeed the right venue for international investors to explore partnerships in upcoming energy projects, both within Bahrain and worldwide,” he said. “With more than 100 international oil and gas companies, contractors, consultants, developers, service providers, law firms and investment firms participating, this forum provides the right platform to discuss and complete joint ventures in energy sectors in the MENA region.”

Bahrain is currently involved in various energy projects and industrial ventures, and is open to new joint ventures, especially in oil and gas exploration and downstream facilities. Venture capital firms attending this conference will receive valuable information and insights into Bahrain’s investment outlook in the oil and gas, power and water sectors, while the discussions and presentations will highlight GCC and global investor perceptions, perspectives, partnership experiences and prospects in joint venture projects.

The gathering, he said, coincides with the 80th anniversary of the commencement of crude oil exports from Bahrain, and celebrates the Kingdom’s achievements in the hydrocarbon, power and water sectors.

The perceptions gained over the next few days will provide a clear picture of the major energy companies in Bahrain and their key projects, he said.

The energy efficiency case studies presented will be enlightening and offer thought-provoking opportunities for professionals and decision makers. The conference will surely make delegates more aware of the importance of establishing the right energy efficiency policy at national levels the world over, including in producer countries.

On the sidelines of the forum, the minister the Bahrain News Agency: “Our concentration was on oil production and that changed to downstream which is oil refineries and other related companies. In addition to a very strong calendar of events throughout the year, we are looking at the possibilities of creating a centre of excellence in Bahrain for companies in the oil sector to operate in and out of Bahrain, attract more of them for job creation and also increasing capabilities.”

Bahrain, he said, welcomes companies planning to set up base. “We look at making Bahrain a service centre in the petroleum sector, allow them to set up base here and develop their business,” he added.

Arrackal Alexander M