Shell and the Masdar Institute of Technology recently underscored the important role gas will play in the region's energy transition at a landmark educational session for members of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) outreach programme.

The growing importance of gas as a part of the regional energy mix and the benefits of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in achieving a sustainable energy future were discussed with the region's future leaders in the fields of energy, who are part of this unique outreach programme led by Masdar Institute.

The second annual knowledge seminar at the Masdar Institute campus is part of Shell's ongoing commitment to the UAE's youth and is aligned with the UAE vision 2021's pillar of developing a diversified knowledge-based economy. It aims to nurture participant's skills and knowledge through engaging them with energy leaders of today in learning opportunities.

In attendance at the seminar were members of Shell's leadership team, officials and members of YFEL from Masdar Institute.

Speaking at the workshop, Rafi Baghdijian, Chief Operating Officer for Shell Abu Dhabi, said, "The MENA region is not only a key producing and exporting region, it also has an exponentially growing demand. By 2020, it is estimated to be the second largest gas market and by 2035 energy demand is estimated to increase by 60%. Natural gas is shaping up to be a natural choice to meet this demand, as the region holds 40% of the world's proven reserves; and accelerating the deployment of gas supports two elements of a 'clean and green' energy system. It allows the global economy to begin decarbonising today and it complements the development of renewables and other innovative low carbon energy technologies."

"Developing an energy system that enables countries in the region to establish sustainability while making responsible choices on climate change can be effectively addressed through investment in gas and LNG. And we are seeing many countries in the region investing in LNG - Dubai & Kuwait are operational, while Abu Dhabi has committed to the development of a terminal in Fujairah and Jordan is already importing LNG," he continued.

Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Vice-President, Institutional Advancement and Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, said, "This annual experiential seminar has become one of the most important events on the YFEL calendar as it enables YFEL members to engage with industry leadership in discussions relevant to their daily lives and with a direct impact on their future and that of the region. Masdar Institute continues to invest in research and development while creating human and intellectual capital in the energy sector. Our collaborative efforts in this regard are complementary and will definitely pave a way to achieve sustainability."

YFEL invests in sharing knowledge with students and young professionals in the fields of renewable energy and sustainability.
Source: WAM