KISR successfully concludes capacity building programme following the publication of the inaugural Kuwait Energy Outlook (KEO)

Kuwait City: Today, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) celebrates the successful conclusion of the publication and subsequent capacity building programme of the first edition of the Kuwait Energy Outlook. The report, which presents ground-breaking analysis to predict and plan for Kuwait’s energy future, is the first of its kind in the Gulf region, and puts forward recommendations to create a more sustainable, energy-efficient and diversified economy and society in Kuwait.

The inaugural KEO highlights and analyses three main challenges Kuwait is facing in ensuring prosperity for future generations: the need to diversify the country’s oil-dependent economy, stimulate efficient energy usage, and further develop renewable energy sources.

Today’s closure event celebrates the report’s major achievements so far, including the successful publication of the first ever KEO, supported by a gender-balanced team working out of a dedicated space; the strengthening of institutional capacity in Kuwait through intensive training programmes supported by the UNDP and partnerships with international bodies including the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI); and the improved collaboration between Kuwait’s key energy players, including the establishment of an editorial committee from seven government institutions to oversee the production of future editions.

Today’s event welcomed high-level individuals to mark the momentous occasion, including representatives from Kuwait’s energy industry, Ministries and Embassies, as well as representatives of KISR’s Energy and Building Research Center (EBRC), the General Secretariat of the Supreme Council for Planning and Development (GSSCPD) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which all contributed to the first edition of the KEO.

Following the ceremony, Dr. Samira A.S. Omar, Director General of KISR, stated that: “KISR’s ambition at its founding was to be at the forefront of energy reform in the country, guiding and offering solutions to one of Kuwait’s most challenging industries. Going forward, the Kuwait Energy Outlook will play an essential role in increasing collaboration between government entities on energy-related issues and upskilling Kuwait’s energy professionals as we work towards creating a more sustainable Kuwait.”

Dr. Khaled Mahdi, Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Planning and Development (GSSCPD), commented that: “Kuwait is leading the region in mapping out a sustainable, diversified energy future based on an evidence-based analysis such as KEO. Adhering to the recommendations as set out in the report will further increase Kuwait’s global competitiveness, benefiting generations to come.”

Mr. Khaled Shahwan, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, underscored the importance of the first Outlook: “UNDP is supporting Kuwait on its journey to achieve its Sustainable Development Goals. Through the first Energy Outlook in the region, Kuwait has taken a major step forward with regards to its socio-economic and environmental development plans.”

KISR has established the Kuwait Energy Policy Team, which has been tasked with the creation of future editions of the report that will likely be published every three years going forward. These Energy Outlooks will be presented at dedicated Forums that will bring together international and domestic stakeholders to discuss Kuwait’s energy future. In addition, special thematic reports will be released periodically that will provide in-depth analyses of specific energy issues.

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About the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR)

• Established in 1967, KISR is an independent national institute for scientific research.
• The main objectives of the institute are to develop and implement best practice in science, technology, knowledge, and innovation to support public and private sector entities in Kuwait and other countries facing similar challenges and opportunities.
• Today, KISR is home to over 580 researchers and engineers spread over 100 laboratories, at 9 locations.

About the General Secretariat of the Supreme Council for Planning and Development (GSSCPD)

• The Planning and Development Council was established under the Decree No. 323 of 2008.
• GSSCPD is an independent development and planning body, mandated with developing social and economic policies in Kuwait, as well as overseeing their implementation.
• It is chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister, and members include the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Cabinet Affairs, Minister of State for Housing Affairs and Minister of State for Development Affairs, Minister of Oil and Minister of Electricity and Water, Minister of Finance, Minister of Health, Minister of Public Works and Minister of State for Municipal Affairs, Minister of Education and Minister of Higher Education, Minister of Social Affairs and Labour, Minister of Information and the Governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait, amongst members from the private sector and civil society organisations

About the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

• UNDP works to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through the sustainable development of nations, in more than 170 countries and territories.
• UNDP has been working in Kuwait since 1962, cooperating with the Government and civil society to realise the country's aspirations for sustainable human development.
• UNDP programming is fully-funded by the State of Kuwait, and is designed to support the country to meet its national developmental priorities.

For media inquiries please contact:
Yasmeen Al Shammeri, y.alshammeri@bensirri.com , +965 97274488

© Press Release 2019