Latest news with #GulfCooperationCouncilInterconnectionAuthority
Arab Times
25-05-2025
- Climate
- Arab Times
Brace for blaze as Kuwait temperatures to hit 51°C
KUWAIT CITY, May 25: The Meteorological Department expects the weather to be hot on Monday, with moderate to active northwesterly winds of up to 45 kilometers per hour; causing dust in open areas and residential areas are relatively affected by this dust. Director of the department Dirar Al- Ali revealed that the weather maps indicate the country is affected by India's seasonal depression, which is accompanied by a very hot air mass. He added that the maximum temperature monitored by the stations at the beginning of the summer season reached 51 degrees Celsius in some areas; while moderate to brisk northwesterly winds were detected at times, causing dust in some areas, especially the open areas. He disclosed it is also expected that the maximum temperature will reach between 45 and 48 degrees Celsius in most land areas, then the depression will gradually deepen and the maximum temperature will rise to reach between 48 and 51 degrees Celsius with light to moderate northwesterly winds from Tuesday until Thursday. Earlier on Sunday, temperatures dropped to 45 degrees Celsius; prompting the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy to refrain from implementing the scheduled power outages in all residential sectors. The load indicator remained in the green zone; recording 16,000 megawatts, in contrast to the consumption recorded in recent days, when the indicator touched the 17,000-megawatt barrier. Sources from the ministry pointed out that the drop in temperatures naturally leads to lower load rates, as it happened on Sunday. They said the ministry is forced to implement scheduled power outages to relieve the grid during peak hours as one of the solutions to the low productivity crisis it is currently facing, in addition to the consumption rationalization campaigns and importing from the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority whenever necessary.
Web Release
06-05-2025
- Business
- Web Release
GCCIA Concludes AI Forum in Kuwait with In-Depth Discussions on Enhancing Power Grid Efficiency
The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), concluded its two-day regional forum held on April 29–30, 2025, under the theme: 'Empowering the Future Grid: Exploring the Application of Generative AI in GCC Power Systems,' which took place in Kuwait City. The event brought together a distinguished group of global technology leaders, including GCCIA, the Saudi Electricity Company, ENOWA (NEOM's Energy and Water Company), GCC energy authorities and utilities, as well as Microsoft, NVIDIA, Oracle, and EPRI Gulf (Electric Power Research Institute), alongside representatives from GCC member states, speakers from major global tech firms, and energy sector experts from across the Gulf region. The first day of the forum featured intensive technical discussions on the transformative potential of generative AI in grid planning, operational optimization, and data-driven asset management. Sessions showcased global AI models and platforms such as Copilot, Open Power AI, digital twins, and GPU-accelerated computing, all aimed at accelerating complex analytics and improving the responsiveness of power networks. Discussions focused on real-world applications of generative AI in grid planning, operations, cybersecurity, and asset management. The forum also introduced the Open Power AI Consortium (OPAI), a global initiative launched by EPRI to foster cross-sector collaboration in developing, testing, and validating AI models for the energy sector. With over 40 members from the U.S., Europe, the Gulf and other utilities and technology companies, OPAI represents a unified effort to accelerate the digital transformation of power systems worldwide. On the second day, the forum shifted focus to the real-world implementation of these technologies within operational utility environments. Participants explored practical applications such as integrating AI copilots into daily workflows, detecting electric vehicle usage patterns, identifying billing anomalies, and conducting real-time sentiment analysis for customer service—all while maintaining full data privacy through internally deployed AI models. Further discussions addressed the reliability of AI models, the efficiency of GPU-based computing, and long-term planning using climate data. Attendees called for environmentally aligned adoption strategies and clear performance indicators to monitor AI impact and ensure its sustainability across power systems. In his remarks, Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, stated: 'We are gathered at a time when the energy sector is evolving into a more intelligent and complex ecosystem. We must reimagine our power grids as dynamic, integrated platforms. Generative AI is no longer a luxury—it is a strategic imperative that enables us to build more agile, efficient, and intelligent power systems. It opens up new frontiers for regional integration, global interconnection, loss reduction, and operational excellence.' He added: 'This forum marks only the beginning of a collective journey. Our goal is to translate technological potential into tangible operational solutions. By fostering deep collaboration between utilities and tech innovators, we can advance from pilot initiatives to fully autonomous grid operations and maintenance. The road ahead is wide open, and the possibilities for AI in the energy sector are limitless.' Throughout the forum, Gulf energy utility representatives engaged in constructive dialogue, sharing case studies that demonstrated measurable improvements in grid efficiency and technical loss reduction enabled by AI. Insights were also drawn from global lessons, including findings that only 35% of organizations feel confident in their infrastructure's readiness to support AI—underscoring the importance of strategic planning and smart investment in digital capabilities. Electricity losses in GCC transmission and distribution networks remain among the lowest globally—just around 5%—positioning the region as an ideal testing ground for strategic AI integration aimed at boosting system reliability, performance, and energy management. Through this forum, GCCIA reaffirmed its commitment to leading digital transformation efforts in the power sector, strengthening regional cooperation, and building a smarter, more sustainable and efficient energy future—cementing the GCC's position as a global model for advanced power systems.
Mid East Info
05-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
GCCIA Concludes AI Forum in Kuwait with In-Depth Discussions on Enhancing Power Grid Efficiency - Middle East Business News and Information
Electricity losses in Gulf transmission and distribution networks among the lowest globally, averaging around 5% Kuwait City, Kuwait,May 2025: The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), concluded its two-day regional forum held on April 29–30, 2025, under the theme: 'Empowering the Future Grid: Exploring the Application of Generative AI in GCC Power Systems,' which took place in Kuwait City. The event brought together a distinguished group of global technology leaders, including GCCIA, the Saudi Electricity Company, ENOWA (NEOM's Energy and Water Company), GCC energy authorities and utilities, as well as Microsoft, NVIDIA, Oracle, and EPRI Gulf (Electric Power Research Institute), alongside representatives from GCC member states, speakers from major global tech firms, and energy sector experts from across the Gulf region. The first day of the forum featured intensive technical discussions on the transformative potential of generative AI in grid planning, operational optimization, and data-driven asset management. Sessions showcased global AI models and platforms such as Copilot, Open Power AI, digital twins, and GPU-accelerated computing, all aimed at accelerating complex analytics and improving the responsiveness of power networks. Discussions focused on real-world applications of generative AI in grid planning, operations, cybersecurity, and asset management. The forum also introduced the Open Power AI Consortium (OPAI), a global initiative launched by EPRI to foster cross-sector collaboration in developing, testing, and validating AI models for the energy sector. With over 40 members from the U.S., Europe, the Gulf and other utilities and technology companies, OPAI represents a unified effort to accelerate the digital transformation of power systems worldwide. On the second day, the forum shifted focus to the real-world implementation of these technologies within operational utility environments. Participants explored practical applications such as integrating AI copilots into daily workflows, detecting electric vehicle usage patterns, identifying billing anomalies, and conducting real-time sentiment analysis for customer service—all while maintaining full data privacy through internally deployed AI models. Further discussions addressed the reliability of AI models, the efficiency of GPU-based computing, and long-term planning using climate data. Attendees called for environmentally aligned adoption strategies and clear performance indicators to monitor AI impact and ensure its sustainability across power systems. In his remarks, Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, stated: 'We are gathered at a time when the energy sector is evolving into a more intelligent and complex ecosystem. We must reimagine our power grids as dynamic, integrated platforms. Generative AI is no longer a luxury—it is a strategic imperative that enables us to build more agile, efficient, and intelligent power systems. It opens up new frontiers for regional integration, global interconnection, loss reduction, and operational excellence.' He added: 'This forum marks only the beginning of a collective journey. Our goal is to translate technological potential into tangible operational solutions. By fostering deep collaboration between utilities and tech innovators, we can advance from pilot initiatives to fully autonomous grid operations and maintenance. The road ahead is wide open, and the possibilities for AI in the energy sector are limitless.' Throughout the forum, Gulf energy utility representatives engaged in constructive dialogue, sharing case studies that demonstrated measurable improvements in grid efficiency and technical loss reduction enabled by AI. Insights were also drawn from global lessons, including findings that only 35% of organizations feel confident in their infrastructure's readiness to support AI—underscoring the importance of strategic planning and smart investment in digital capabilities. Electricity losses in GCC transmission and distribution networks remain among the lowest globally—just around 5%—positioning the region as an ideal testing ground for strategic AI integration aimed at boosting system reliability, performance, and energy management. Through this forum, GCCIA reaffirmed its commitment to leading digital transformation efforts in the power sector, strengthening regional cooperation, and building a smarter, more sustainable and efficient energy future—cementing the GCC's position as a global model for advanced power systems.
Zawya
05-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GCCIA concludes AI Forum in Kuwait with in-depth discussions on enhancing power grid efficiency
Kuwait City, Kuwait: The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), concluded its two-day regional forum held on April 29–30, 2025, under the theme: 'Empowering the Future Grid: Exploring the Application of Generative AI in GCC Power Systems,' which took place in Kuwait City. The event brought together a distinguished group of global technology leaders, including GCCIA, the Saudi Electricity Company, ENOWA (NEOM's Energy and Water Company), GCC energy authorities and utilities, as well as Microsoft, NVIDIA, Oracle, and EPRI Gulf (Electric Power Research Institute), alongside representatives from GCC member states, speakers from major global tech firms, and energy sector experts from across the Gulf region. The first day of the forum featured intensive technical discussions on the transformative potential of generative AI in grid planning, operational optimization, and data-driven asset management. Sessions showcased global AI models and platforms such as Copilot, Open Power AI, digital twins, and GPU-accelerated computing, all aimed at accelerating complex analytics and improving the responsiveness of power networks. Discussions focused on real-world applications of generative AI in grid planning, operations, cybersecurity, and asset management. The forum also introduced the Open Power AI Consortium (OPAI), a global initiative launched by EPRI to foster cross-sector collaboration in developing, testing, and validating AI models for the energy sector. With over 40 members from the U.S., Europe, the Gulf and other utilities and technology companies, OPAI represents a unified effort to accelerate the digital transformation of power systems worldwide. On the second day, the forum shifted focus to the real-world implementation of these technologies within operational utility environments. Participants explored practical applications such as integrating AI copilots into daily workflows, detecting electric vehicle usage patterns, identifying billing anomalies, and conducting real-time sentiment analysis for customer service—all while maintaining full data privacy through internally deployed AI models. Further discussions addressed the reliability of AI models, the efficiency of GPU-based computing, and long-term planning using climate data. Attendees called for environmentally aligned adoption strategies and clear performance indicators to monitor AI impact and ensure its sustainability across power systems. In his remarks, Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, stated: 'We are gathered at a time when the energy sector is evolving into a more intelligent and complex ecosystem. We must reimagine our power grids as dynamic, integrated platforms. Generative AI is no longer a luxury—it is a strategic imperative that enables us to build more agile, efficient, and intelligent power systems. It opens up new frontiers for regional integration, global interconnection, loss reduction, and operational excellence.' He added: 'This forum marks only the beginning of a collective journey. Our goal is to translate technological potential into tangible operational solutions. By fostering deep collaboration between utilities and tech innovators, we can advance from pilot initiatives to fully autonomous grid operations and maintenance. The road ahead is wide open, and the possibilities for AI in the energy sector are limitless.' Throughout the forum, Gulf energy utility representatives engaged in constructive dialogue, sharing case studies that demonstrated measurable improvements in grid efficiency and technical loss reduction enabled by AI. Insights were also drawn from global lessons, including findings that only 35% of organizations feel confident in their infrastructure's readiness to support AI—underscoring the importance of strategic planning and smart investment in digital capabilities Electricity losses in GCC transmission and distribution networks remain among the lowest globally—just around 5%—positioning the region as an ideal testing ground for strategic AI integration aimed at boosting system reliability, performance, and energy management. Through this forum, GCCIA reaffirmed its commitment to leading digital transformation efforts in the power sector, strengthening regional cooperation, and building a smarter, more sustainable and efficient energy future—cementing the GCC's position as a global model for advanced power systems.
Web Release
30-04-2025
- Business
- Web Release
GCCIA Champions Gulf Utilities' Push to Global AI Leadership in Energy
The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), in collaboration with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), has launched today (Tuesday, 29 April 2025) a pivotal workshop in Kuwait under the theme 'Empowering the Future Grid: Exploring the Application of Generative AI in GCC Power Systems'. Taking place until Wednesday (30 April 2025) at the Hilton Garden Inn, the event convenes key leaders from the Gulf electricity sector alongside global technology pioneers Microsoft, Oracle, and NVIDIA. As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the global energy landscape, the Gulf region stands at the forefront of this transformation. According to recent studies, AI could contribute up to $150 billion to the GCC's economy, representing about 9% of the region's total GDP. GCC utility companies today demonstrate one of the highest levels of AI readiness globally, fuelled by strategic investment and vision. Through initiatives like this workshop, GCCIA fulfils its core mandate of promoting integration, collaboration, and competitiveness among Gulf electricity systems. The Authority firmly believes that Generative AI will be a cornerstone technology in enhancing the operational resilience, sustainability, and global competitiveness of the region's power networks — supporting not only internal connectivity among GCC countries, but also ambitious future plans for interconnection with Europe and international energy markets. In this context, Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, stated: 'Today, we gather at the intersection of innovation and necessity. As the energy landscape evolves into a cleaner yet complex future, so too must our approaches and technologies for our future grids. Generative AI represents a frontier with the potential to transform our power grids into more resilient, efficient, and intelligent systems.' He added: 'Recognizing such needs, EPRI has just launched the Open Power AI Consortium representing a significant step forward in harnessing the power of AI to transform the energy sector. By fostering collaboration between technology leaders and energy partners, the consortium aims to create a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable power industry for the future through implementation of AI progressing from augmentation applications to Auto-piloting and ultimately reaching Autonomous application in operation and maintenance. The journey has just begun, and the possibilities are limitless as AI continues to unlock new potential in energy management and optimization.' A Strategic Platform for Gulf Utilities to Shape the Future The event's agenda, developed with significant leadership from GCCIA and regional utilities, focuses on real-world case studies, best practices, and brainstorming sessions led by Gulf power sector experts. Participants are sharing firsthand insights into how AI is already enhancing their operations and discussing strategies to scale adoption further across the region. Day one of the workshop witnessed the active participation of representatives from across the GCC power systems, who engaged in dynamic knowledge-sharing discussions. These interactions reaffirmed a collective determination to harness the full potential of AI in alignment with the visions of Gulf leadership — driving progress in sustainability, regional connectivity, and global competitiveness. Beyond showcasing innovation, the workshop critically examines lessons learned from international AI deployment failures, where only 35% of organizations were confident their infrastructure could support AI solutions. By learning from these experiences, Gulf utilities aim to build smarter, future-proof AI systems that drive tangible value across their networks. Over two days, sessions explore how Generative AI is transforming grid planning, operations, and asset management. Leaders from Microsoft share insights on leveraging the Copilot platform for energy operations, while Oracle and NVIDIA present cutting-edge AI applications for the power sector. EPRI experts contribute technical perspectives, collaborating with Gulf utilities to develop actionable roadmaps for AI integration. Through its leadership, GCCIA underscores the enormous opportunity for Gulf utilities to invest in AI technologies to support sustainability goals, reduce carbon emissions, enhance system interoperability, and strengthen resilience across the entire Gulf region. By empowering Gulf utilities with advanced AI capabilities, GCCIA is helping to position the region as a global model for smart, sustainable, and integrated electricity systems — ensuring secure, efficient, and competitive energy networks for decades to come.
