KUWAIT CITY, Nov 5: Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, Acting Minister of Finance, and Acting Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment, Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, on Wednesday, affirmed that Kuwait has made significant progress in energy conservation and demand management through national community awareness programs.

Speaking at the opening of the Gulf Energy Conservation Forum, held under his patronage, Minister Al-Mukhaizeem highlighted efforts by the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, in collaboration with various state sectors, to integrate energy efficiency into planning and operations and expand reliance on renewable energy. He emphasized that these initiatives align with Kuwait Vision 2035 and the broader Gulf strategy toward a green economy, reduced carbon emissions, and carbon neutrality.

He noted that Gulf experiences in energy conservation now form a comprehensive knowledge system, ranging from smart meter programs and modern monitoring systems to green buildings, energy-efficient appliance standards, and community awareness campaigns. “The Gulf Forum for Rationalization sends a collective awareness message to the world, showing that Gulf citizens are partners in sustainable development and that environmental consciousness is a part of our culture,” he said.

Minister Al-Mukhaizeem commended the Gulf Committee for Electricity and Water Rationalization and Customer Services for its initiatives, awards, and programs that encourage competition and innovation in energy and water efficiency. He stressed that sustainability and rational use of resources are critical challenges for GCC countries, affecting life quality and national security. He added that efficient management of electricity and water is essential to support population growth, urbanization, and industrial development while fostering a culture of conservation for future generations.

Fatouh Al-Raqam, Head of the Judging Committee for the Gulf Excellence in Energy and Water Efficiency Award, noted that the award, which received 24 entries and produced seven winners, is a key initiative in the GCC to encourage best practices in energy and water conservation. Al-Raqam, who is also Acting Director of the Science and Technology Department at the Energy and Building Research Center of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, said the award aims to inspire institutions and individuals to adopt innovative solutions and raise public awareness of efficient resource use.

The award covered categories including buildings, electronic applications, and social media influencers. Winners included the Etihad Electricity and Water Company building in the UAE and the Saudi Electricity and Water Company building for Best Commercial Building; Kahramaa Park in Qatar and Al-Othman Mosque in Kuwait for Best Educational Building; Abdulaziz Al-Abdulilah from Kuwait for Best Gulf Influencer; the UAE Energy Management Team’s “Energy X” application for Best Electronic Application; and the National Bank of Kuwait’s headquarters for Best Financial Building.

The forum also featured dialogue sessions with representatives from relevant sectors, focusing on promoting energy and water efficiency across the Gulf region and supporting national strategies for sustainable development.