The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) announced its participation in the 24th World Energy Congress that will take place in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of the UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The event will run from September 9 to 12, 2019, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) under the slogan ‘Energy for Prosperity’.
During the global gathering, NCM will highlight its important role in the energy sector in supplying relevant entities with reliable data on current and forecast weather conditions around the clock. This enables the recipients to take crucial decisions that contribute to the protection of life and property while delivering a significant economic and environmental impact.
At its pavilion at the exhibition held on the sidelines of the World Energy Congress, the Center will showcase its efforts and the latest technologies in weather forecasting and rain enhancement. Moreover, it will introduce trade visitors to the ‘weather enhancement factory’, the first facility in the region to produce salt flares for use in cloud-seeding operations.
His Excellency Dr Abdulla Al Mandous, Executive Director of NCM and President of the Regional Association II (Asia) of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), said: “We are delighted to attend this definitive energy event that reinforces the status of Abu Dhabi as a global hub for the energy sector, and attracts top energy leaders and decision makers from all over the world.”
He added: “The World Energy Congress provides us with a perfect opportunity to highlight our contribution to the energy sector through the provision of climate data and weather forecasts to companies operating in oil and gas exploration and production. This allows them to plan their work schedule at onshore and offshore locations to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of operations as well as the safety of people and assets.”
NCM has an extensive network of 113 stations that continuously monitor weather conditions across the country. Located at islands, coasts, inland and mountainous areas, and airports, these facilities share accurate climate data through various means, including social media, the NCM website and mobile application, traditional mass media, and the official communication channels of diverse entities and contractors. In case of high-impact weather fluctuations, such as tropical cyclones, thunderstorms and strong winds, NCM issues special reports well in advance, followed by timely updates, so that key decision makers as well as the public can take all the necessary precautions.
Applauding NCM’s efforts in energy sector, His Excellency Dr. Matar Al Neyadi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Industry, and Chairman of the 24th World Energy Congress Organizing Committee, said: “Weather plays an important role in the energy sector in various parts of the world, especially in areas vulnerable to thunderstorms, hurricanes and high temperatures. We are delighted with the participation of NCM in World Energy Congress to showcase the latest weather forecasting technologies. NCM’s participation in the event reiterates the role of World Energy Congress in highlighting all aspects of energy sector and how they work in harmony to achieve sustainability and prosperity.”
During the congress, NCM will focus on showcasing the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science, a global research initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and managed by the Center. NCM will provide an overview of the nine research projects that received grants over the three cycles of the program, the achievements of the awardees and project updates. Furthermore, visitors will gain valuable insight into the importance of cloud-seeding projects for future generations in the face of water scarcity.
Alya Al Mazroui, Director of the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science, said: “Our participation in the World Energy Congress will enable us to meet and network with global energy leaders and experts, in addition to exploring the latest innovations in this vital sector. Through its exhibit at the NCM pavilion, the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science will seek to emphasize its pioneering role in advancing global research endeavors in rain enhancement. Water scarcity and security are among the most pressing issues today that require our concerted efforts to identify feasible and effective solutions. Rainwater obtained through techniques such as cloud seeding offers a viable alternative to groundwater and water produced through desalination processes.”
Organized by the World Energy Council, the triennial World Energy Congress has been running in major cities around the world since 1924. The world’s largest gathering aimed at shaping the future of the global energy industry serves as an ideal platform for leading international experts to address current and future energy challenges. The upcoming edition in Abu Dhabi will mark the event’s debut outing in the Arab world and in a member country of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).