construction week - issue 310
DESCRIPTION
Construction Week - Issue 310 - ITP BusinessTRANSCRIPT
SAUDI ARABIA BAHRAIN UNITED ARAB EMIRATES QATAR OMAN KUWAIT
ConstructionWEEK NEWS, ANALYSIS, PROJECTS,
TENDERS, CLASSIFIEDS, ANDJOBS IN THE MIDDLE EAST
FEB 27–MAR 5, 2010 [310]An ITP Business Publication CONSTRUCTIONWEEKONLINE.COM
INSIDENEWSPiling work gets under way on the Louvre Abu DhabiPAGE 9
EVENTSTwo major events will run concurrently in Jeddah, in early MarchPAGE 14
INTERVIEWScott Wilson’s Cathy Crocker explains how to slash air-con costsPAGE 20
SIX OF THE BESTLucrative GCC road building contracts you should know aboutPAGE 23
Licensed by Dubai Media City
w about
CITYSIX OF THLucrative GCbuilding congshould knowPAGE 23
NEW MODELCW LOOKS AT HOW PARTNERSHIPS ARE MAKING MASDAR CITY POSSIBLE
DAMMAM
CITY FOCUSpage 62
SEE PAGE 31
CONTENTS
14 EVENTSIndustry dates for your diary.
16 COMMENTSyed Ali Dilawer talks about the responsibilities of an expert while preparing a delay claim.
18 LEGALExamining the rise of contracting giants from the Asia-Pacifi c region and what that mean for Gulf business.
REGULARS2 ONLINE4 MAIL
FRONT9 PILES SUNK FOR THE LOUVRE ABU DHABIBauer International has begun piling work on The Louvre Abu Dhabi, part of the Saadiyat Island Cultural District.
10 UAE’S DEWAN WINS BAGHDAD MUNICIPALITY DESIGN CONTESTDewan Architects & Engineers has submitted the winning design for the development of the holy shrines area in Al Kadhimiya, Baghdad.
12 NEWS IN BRIEFHighlights of the week.
FEATURES20 INTERVIEWScott Wilson’s associate director Cathy Crocker sits down with CW to talk about the reduction of energy reduction of cooling systems.
23 SIX OF THE BESTTop GCC road projects you need to know about.
27 SPECIAL REPORTCW speaks to major air-con companies about how they are meeting the increased demand for energy-effi cient products.
31 MASDAR CITYThe process of building a carbonneutral city from the ground up andthe construction partners involved inthe ambitious project a reality.
.DIRECTORY54 SHOWCASE57 TENDERS58 PROJECTS59 APPOINTMENTS60 SPECIALIST SERVICES
BACK62 CITY UPDATEThe latest news and projects from Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
64 DIALOGUEJones Lang LaSalle’s Blair Hagkull discusses the key trends for the real estate and construction industry in 2010.
FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 5, 2010 | ISSUE 310
1FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
10 16
18
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CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 20102
FEATURESCW
BUILD FOR THE END USER, NOT FOR THE DEVELOPERAlan Millin says developers must heed consumers’ calls for quality.
PMV
THE FIRST TRUE SKYSCRAPERGreg Whitaker refl ects on how tall buildings became possible.
Dubai Pearl will cover more than 1.39 million m2 and include four 73-storey towers, plus a hotel. Piling works on all four towers have been completed along with their rafts. The pouring of 23 columns for Tower 1 has been completed on the B1 level and shuttering work is in progress. Rebar cleaning work for columns is also underway along with waterproofi ng work on top of the raft sides. On Tower 3 of the project (pictured), rebar work for the columns is also currently being worked on along with backfi lling around the raft.To see more visit www.ConstructionWeekOnline.com
IN PICTURES: DUBAI PEARL CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
ONLINEwww.ConstructionWEEKonline.com
MOST POPULARSIX OF THE BEST: TOP GCC ROAD PROJECTSMAKKAH LAND PRICES HIT $133,000 PER SQ METRERENEGOTIATION BECOMES THE ORDER OF THE DAYDUBAI METRO RED LINE SET FOR APRIL COMPLETION
TO VOTE IN THIS WEEK’S SPOT POLL GO TOwww.ConstructionWEEKonline.com
HAVE YOUR SAYIS THE MARKET READY TO GENERATE LONG-TERM REWARDS?Will we see a transition towards long-term investments in the GCC?
JOBS OF THE WEEKResident Engineer, Salalah, OmanSales Head - Consumer Healthcare, Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaGeneral Manager - Distribution Business, Kuwait City, Kuwait
ONLINE POLLIS YOUR COMPANY RENEGOTIATING CONTRACTS?
53.9%Yes, we were forced to.
19.2%Yes, it’s great.
15.4%No way, never.
11.5%Nope, we’ve dodged that bullet so far.
FM
PREDICTABLE BENEFITSDan Mizesko on the benefi ts of predictive maintenance.
CID
OMANI THROUGH AND THROUGHSix Senses Zighi Bay proves luxury and sustainability can co-exist.
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 20104PUBLISHED BY AND © 2010 ITP BUSINESS PUBLISHING, A DIVISION OF THE ITP PUBLISHING GROUP LTD,REGISTERED IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS COMPANY NUMBER 1402846
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MAILRE: BUILD FOR THE END USER, NOT FOR THE DEVELOPERAlan Millin, you are so right. As a manufacturer of a premium brand of products for HVAC, we are so often faced with competition from cheap, inadequate Far Eastern products, which simply neither go the distance, nor do the job for which they were intended. I feel sorry for the unknowing individual who forks out his hard cash for a property that will turn out to be more of a liability than an investment. How often have I been told by contractors that as long as a product can struggle through their one year maintenance period they will buy as cheaply as possible. After that it is the problem of the property owner. The sooner the government initiates a building guarantee scheme that protects the home owner the better.JIM MARTIN
RE: THE NANO MANInteresting article but with very limited content. I tried to get more information and I searched the internet for Claude’s company “Nano Solutions Corp” in Malaysia but did not manage to fi nd anything. Additional information would be really appreciated.AHMED
It would be more interesting if the nano man gave us some more pictures or samples of nanotechnology, such as how it is being used in housing appliances etc.STEVE ARZOUMANIAN
RE: HIGH-END BATH-ROOM FITTINGS FOR ACACIA AVENUEHow about using some good quality luxurious products that are water saving? Everyone in the western world is looking at these products, but in Dubai they still talk about the water wasting sanitary ware and mixers.ARJUN
RE: RTA DENIES SLOW-DOWN ON METROThe above story is not true. The consultant of Dubai Metro has terminated 75% of its staff last week due to payment issues. The remaining are staff also under severe risk of terminating in the future. It’s a disaster.CNN2NET
Dubai’s Roads and Traffi c Authority is in denial that the Japanese-led consortium building the Dubai metro has slowed work on the project due to a US $2.5 billion (AED 9.2 billion) payment dispute. I have several friends who work on the Metro and confi rm that their bosses have instructed them to slow the works, owing to cash fl ow problems, which have been caused by the non payment by the RTA. Why does the RTA deny this?JOE
RE: AL AIN CITY UPDATEAl Ain is the most suitable place to live in UAE. It is very nice place with green all over, but the government has to increase the standard of living for UAE residents here.DOXON JOSEPH
WRITE TO THE EDITOR Please address your letters to: Post, Construction Week, PO Box 500024, Dubai, UAE or email [email protected]. Please provide your full name and address, stating clearly if you do not wish us to print them. Alternatively log on to www.ConstructionWEEKonline.com and air your views on any one of a number of the latest Middle East business articles.
The opinions expressed in this section are of particular individuals and are in no way a refl ection of the publisher’s views.
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CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 20106
FOREWORD
WRITE TO THE EDITOR Please address your letters to: Construction Week, PO Box 500024, Dubai, UAE or email [email protected]. Please provide your full name and address, stating clearly if you do not wish us to print them. Alternatively log on to www.ConstructionWEEKonline.com and air your views on any one of a number of the latest articles.
“CARBON CREDITS ARE NONSENSE. THE POINT OF TRYING TO BE CARBON NEUTRAL IS TO STOP WRECKING THE PLANET’S ATMOSPHERE”
NEUTRALITY IS NOT EASY
STUART MATTHEWS SENIOR GROUP [email protected]
I am not carbon neutral. For a start, I come from a long way away and rack up fl ying time measured in days, not hours. I drive gas guzzling vehicles with a heavy right foot and take ready advantage of cheap petrol.
I may have district cooling at home - lauded as environmentally friendly, but murderous on the wallet – but I waste it because I have to pay a high fi xed charge, regardless of how much I use.
Economists would suggest that there should be an incentive to encourage me to use less. They’re right. But apparently not right enough to have local developers pay any attention.
Economists, however, have also come up with other clever incentive schemes to aid carbon neutrality. Carbon credits are an artifi cial economic device layered over the real economy, allowing companies to buy their green credentials and off-set any carbon they spew into the atmosphere, through the purchase of ‘credits’, essentially theoretical trees.
Online businesses are fl ourishing, selling peace of mind to the carbon guilty, after helping them calculate just how bad they are. Airlines like this too. Some include it as an option when you buy a ticket: ‘would you like to off-set your carbon?’ No thanks.
Carbon credits are nonsense. The point of trying to be carbon neutral is to stop wrecking the planet’s atmosphere. This should be a genuine effort, not an economic sleight of hand. Buy enough carbon credits and you can off-set anything. Anyone fancy a carbon-neutral coal-fi red power station? Or perhaps plant a tree with your next six-litre V8? Pointless.
Real change can only come after genuine effort. Yes people, if you want something, you have to work for it. And if it is a new idea, you may have to be the fi rst to try. This is the position the developers of Masdar City fi nd themselves in.
They are trying something new in developing a zero carbon city and learning as they go. It will not be easy, but the experiment they are engaged in may produce useful lessons for everyone.
Regardless of what you think of the project and its progress, they should be applauded for trying.
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9FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
Bauer International has begun piling work on The Louvre Abu Dhabi, part of the Saadiyat Island Cultural District.
Over the next 20 weeks, a total of 5638 piles are scheduled to be sunk, including 4298 steel piles and 1340 concrete piles. Laid end to end, the piles would stretch to 94.2km in length.
“We are very excited about the Louvre Abu Dhabi project and how it is progress-ing so rapidly,” said Lee Tabler, CEO of Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC), the master developer of Saadiyat Island.
“Taking the development aspect into per-spective, our requirements for contractors are very demanding and we are proud to work with the world’s leading construc-tion fi rms.”
FRONT
PILES SUNK FOR THE LOUVRE ABU DHABIBy CW Staff
This piling works contract constitutes the second package to be issued for the Louvre Abu Dhabi since its ground breaking last year. The fi rst package of enabling works, also executed by Bauer International, was completed in January 2010 after 503,000 m³ of earth had been excavated to accom-modate the base of the museum.
Once this current phase of piling work is complete, a sub-structure contractor will be appointed to construct the concrete and waterproofi ng works up to ground level. The tender for this was sent out in mid February 2010 and the contractor will be appointed in May 2010.
The package for the main building work will be tendered later this year.
Designed by Jean Nouvel, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is part of the Saadiyat Island Cultural
District, which will also include the Zayed National Museum and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi museum.
The Louvre design features a perfo-rated aluminium dome, 180m in diameter, which will represent one of the key con-struction challenges.
“The dome is the largest architectural element in the project and we want to test both its functionality and manageability,” explained Felix Reinberg, project director of the Cultural District for TDIC.
To that end, a six-metre prototype of the dome has been installed on Saadiyat Island for the sole purpose of testing the play of light and shadow on the site, prior to fab-rication of the fi nal structure.
All work in the Cultural District is sched-uled for completion in 2013.
PILING WORKS GET UNDER WAY FOR THE LOUVRE, ABU DHABI, PART OF THE SAADIYAT ISLAND CULTURAL DISTRICT.
>News 10>Highlights 12>Events 14>Comment 16>Legal 18
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201010
FRONTMAZAYA QATAR BAGS QR 500 MILLION FOR PROJECTSBy CW Staff
Mazaya Qatar Real Estate Development’s recent IPO has raised US $137.3 million(QR500 million), increasing its paid-up capital to QR1 billion.
The IPO ran from January 17 until 31, with 50 million shares offered at a price of QR10 per share.
According to a statement, Mazaya Qatar is focusing on ‘low risk’ projects, though no details on any of its planned projects have been disclosed as yet.
Last month, ahead of the IPO, company chairman Rashid Fahad Al Naimi, said: “The board of directors decided to wait and study the market so as to be able to identify the perfect timing to take advantage of opportunities. The company’s fi rst project will be announced soon.”
The company has been accepting prequalifi cation applications from contractors during February, in advance of making contract selections for the projects it is planning to announce.
The remaining stations on Dubai Metro’s Red Line will begin opening in phases in April 2010, a senior offi cial from Dubai’s Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) announced in a press release on Saturday.
All works in the stations on the Green Line will be com-pleted in August 2011, said Mattar Al Tayer, executive director of RTA.
“The operation of Red Line stations will be in phases starting from April 25th, 2010; where several key stations will be operational; namely Emirates Station, Airport Terminal 1 Station, GGICO Station, Al Karama Station, World Trade Center Station, Marina Station, and Ibn
DUBAI METRO RED LINE SET FOR APRIL COMPLETIONBy CW Staff
Battuta Station. The remaining stations will be operated over the following months of 2010,” Al Tayer said.
The Green line is the second line of the Dubai Metro; it will be a 22.5km route comprising 40 trains that will run from Dubai Airport Free Zone to Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) through Saeediya and will include two interchange stations with the Red Line, at Union Square and Burjuman.
Dubai Metro has served 9,872,545 passengers since it was launched last September, according to recent statis-tics compiled by Rail Agency of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
Dewan Architects & Engineers has submitted the winning design for the development of the holy shrines area in Al Kadhimiya, Baghdad.
A jury decided that Dewan’s proposal, one of 10 shortlisted submissions, was the most aesthetically pleasing and sensitive to the area’s historical and social character.
“The development needs to be manoeu-vred in such a way that the place does not lose its soul and this was one of our most important considerations throughout the design process,” said Mohamed Al Assam, founder of Dewan.
“Another consideration was that during seasonal religious ceremonies and festivi-ties, the area of Al Kadhimiya receives large numbers of visitors. It is critical that the
UAE’S DEWAN WINS BAGHDAD MUNICIPALITY DESIGN CONTESTBy CW Staff
urban fabric can cope with exceptional demands during such peak periods.”
Explaining the vision behind Dewan’s winning design, Al Assam said: “The fi nal design we submitted envisions the shrine as the innermost ‘kernel’ of the city, enveloped and protected by different urban layers that mediate between the interior and the exterior world and together form a coher-ent whole.
Dewan Architects & Engineers is a regional architectural and engineering design fi rm with offi ces in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Qatar, and Philippines. The fi rm was recently ranked the 60th largest architectural fi rm in the world, and the fi fth largest in the region, in Building Design Magazine’s recent annual ‘World Architecture Top 100’.
DEWAN PLANS TO DEVELOP AL KADHIMIYA WHILST PROTECTING THE HISTORICAL CHARACTER OF BAGHDAD.
Alumil Gulf fzcsubsidiary of ALUMIL in the Middle EastTechnology Park, RAK FTZ, RAKtel +971 7 2444106, fax +971 7 2444107email [email protected], [email protected]
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201012
FRONT
The expansion of the Grand
Mosque in Makkah is
sending land prices soaring, to as much as
US $133,000per m2
Saudi Arabia allocated
US $3.17billion
in its 2010budget for
construction of6400 km
of roads
GE is to help Pakistan meet
projected energy demand of
54,000 MWby the year
2020
HIGHLIGHTS
Project
ABU DHABI DESIGN MANUALContractors and suppliers can look forward to the prospect of more business in Abu Dhabi following the launch of the ‘Urban Street Design Manual’. Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) has released the document, which constitutes a set of comprehensive guidelines for the redesign of the capital’s streets and outdoor spaces. Together, they aim to make the UAE capital safer and more aesthetically pleasing and, ultimately, promote the use of public transport. UPC has previously outlined plans to reduce dependence on cars and promote the use of public transport. The Urban Street Design Manual aims to further this goal by redesigning streets to make walking and cycling more viable options for residents.
Real estate
FUND LAUNCHEDAl Rajhi Capital, the investment arm of Saudi Arabia’s Al Rajhi Bank, and Arcapita Bank, based in
Bahrain, have launched a US $500 million (SR1.875 billion) real estate fund. The fund will buy income-generating buildings, primarily in Saudi Arabia, in sectors such as logistics, healthcare and education. The fund has already made its fi rst acquisition, the main distribution centre for Azizia Panda United Company, a leading supermarket company in Saudi Arabia. It was acquired for US $79.7 million and will be leased back to Azizia Panda for a period of 18 years. Al Rajhi and Arcapita plan to seed the fund, the ARC Real Estate Income Fund, with $50 million and market it to institutional and high net worth investors in the GCC.
PMV
TUNNEL PARTNERSHIPAbu Dhabi-based Aabar Investments and Germany-based Herrenknecht AG are to set up a UAE-based fi rm specialising in tunnel boring equipment. The company, 51%-owned by Aabar, will own and operate a facility that will assemble and
manufacture tunneling products and vertical drilling rigs. The share capital of the joint venture company is AED25 million, of which Aabar’s share is AED12.75 million. Aabar recently made headlines by agreeing to acquire a majority stake in Arabtec, a leading Dubai-based contracting company.
MEP
GREEN CHAMBERAn offi cial plaque-unveiling ceremony has been held at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry to highlight its new LEED certifi cation. The unveiling took place in the presence of HE Rashid Ahmad bin Fahad, the UAE Minister of Environment and Water. The certifi cation makes the Chamber the fi rst existing commercial LEED building in the region, and one of only four outside the US and Canada. The Dubai Chamber’s efforts to go green started more than ten years ago, during a time when environmental responsibility was not fashionable or expected,
led by the Chamber’s green building team, which worked on a number of energy- and water-saving initiatives in the region. The Dubai Chamber has succeeded in reducing water and energy consumption by about 77% and 47% respectively between 1998 and 2008, leading to signifi cant carbon emission reductions and accumulated power savings of around AED7.1 million.
Real estate
PALM DEMANDEuropean investors spent around AED60 million on fl ats at the Oceana Residence in January, according to the property’s manager, Asteco. Unit sales averaged almost one per day. “We have had a very busy January,” said Ian Hollingdale, head of project, Asteco. “Almost half of the investors are British; Russians account for around 25% of our sales, with the French, Dutch and Belgians making up the bulk of the rest.” Oceana Residence is a gated community, developed by Seven Tides and located on The Palm Jumeirah.
NEWS IN NUMBERS
ASEC Holding has bought
9.48% of ASEC Cement
for US $80millionin cash and
shares
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CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201014
EVENTS
Saudi Arabia is the fastest growing economy in the region. The economy is set to become one of the top ten global investment centres. This determination for growth is fuelling expansion on infrastructure as it tries to keep pace with an ambitious development plan. Amid a year of global economic challenges, construction projects in Saudi Arabia have remained relatively untroubled with as little as 1% of projects delayed or put on hold. There are few countries in the world who can boast the scale and scope of some of the landmark projects in the kingdom.
The Saudi PMV show is intended to spark discussion on how major projects impact on their business. Hundreds of billions of dollars will be invested in the construction and fi t out of these major projects. The question for the Cranes & PMV market is how do we resource this expansion program? Comparisons and benchmarks do not exist however we must ensure that all resources in the build are managed. Delays which lead to cost increases or penalties on this scale must be avoided.
The Saudi PMV Show is now in its third year and promises to build on the success of last year’s exhibition in Dammam, which saw the largest gathering of cranes, heavy vehicles and equipment ever seen in the Kingdom. In 2010, in addition to the equipment on display, the show will include workshops, demonstrations and auctions, making it a not-to-be-missed event for PMV pro-fessionals from all across the Middle East. Organisers expect purchasing representatives from more than 250 construction fi rms to attend the show. �
The rampant growth of the Saudi Arabian construction market over the past 5 years has been driven by ongoing infrastructure projects in oil and gas, power, education, transport and telecoms.
The Saudi Government continues to promote capital develop-ment projects in the areas of power, desalination, roads, railways, and economic cities. Private sector projects such as commercial buildings, malls, and hotels also represent signifi cant opportuni-ties, as they are in line with the drive to develop infrastructure in the business and leisure sector.
Recent trends illustrate just how important the Saudi Arabian market is for the region. The Kingdom boasts the largest population and projects that dwarf those in neighbouring countries, and the relaxation of foreign investment laws has resulted in major con-tracts being awarded to foreign companies. The Construction Week Jeddah Conference will bring together infl uential individuals in the Kingdom’s construction industry to discuss and debate these issues, network with peers, and celebrate the industry’s success. �
Event focusSAUDI PMV SHOW
DATE: 7TH – 9TH MARCH 2010LOCATION: JEDDAH GATE, CENTRAL JEDDAHTIME: 3PM TO 9PM
Event focusCONSTRUCTION WEEK CONFERENCE SAUDI ARABIA
DATE: 7TH – 8TH MARCH 2010LOCATION: JEDDAH GATE, CENTRAL JEDDAHTIME: 9.30PM TO 3.30PM
SPEAKERSAbdullah Hamidaddan Governor of Economic Cities, SAGIA
Dr. Abdulrahman Al Shaikh Deputy Minister for Town Planning
Dr. Abdulgader O. Amir VP, Jeddah Development and
Regeneration Co
Eng. Mu’taz Sawwaf CEO, CPC Holding
John Harris National Director, Jones Lang LaSalle
Dr. Sami Mohsen Angawi Director General, AMAR Centre for
Architectural Studies
Mark Dickson Project Director, Knowledge Economic City
Samir Khairallah Project Director, Saudi Oger
Tahir Sharif President, buildSMART ME
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201016
> For the latest news and comments log on to www.ConstructionWEEKonline.com/comment
COMMENT
An expert’s jobSYED ALI DILAWER TALKS ABOUT THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF AN EXPERT WHILE PREPARING A DELAY CLAIM
The investigation and data-gathering phase: This phase is oriented toward identifying, collecting the specifi c data required to document original plans and actual performance in order to identify and confi rm the problems and delays encountered. This phase generally requires considerable time in the fi eld offi ces of the project. The material gathered through the following tasks provides the base for the fact-fi nding and evaluation phase. Steps include: review of project records and chronological listing of claim issues.
Fact–fi nding and evaluation phase: The task associated with this phase are originated towards providing a clear understanding of the delays and issues identifi ed and organising them into a
comprehensive position. Effective co-ordination with legal counsel is particularly important to ensure that all fi ndings are correlated with the legal plan. Strategic key tasks during this phase are:
Establishment of an as-planned schedule, detailed analysis of the project records, identifi cation of data com-paring actual and planned performance, researching claim issue.
Conclusion should include a determination of responsibility for delay, the quantifi cation
of the net time and cost impact associ-ated with each delay and identifi cation of its relationship to any other delays that occurred previously or are occur-ring concurrently.
Presentation of report and conclusion phase: The presen-tation phase activities will vary from project to project. This ultimately depends on expert’s fi ndings, conclusions, order of presentation, and procedures to be followed. Careful evaluation of the audience, to whom the previously developed information must be effectively communicated, is required to establish the most suitable, presentation techniques. Close coordination with legal counsel is necessary to ensure that the presentation of claim is supportive.
Many experts can discuss a case intelligently, but the expert’s ability to write a cohesive report in collaboration with the counsel is critical to the outcome of the case.
An expert’s specifi c task in preparing or defending against a delay damage claim is dependent upon the agreement established by the counsel and the client as to the expert’s exact role.
In this regard, it must be clearly noted that any reports or con-clusions developed by the expert must be fair to all sides, fi rmly grounded in the facts of the project, and derived from complete and proper reviews of appropriate project data.
Thus, for expert testimony to be of value it must refl ect a fair and complete review of the project data and it must refl ect analyses that take into account major and controlling delays of all parties on the project.
The byword for the expert role in preparing scheduling analyses must include fair and complete reviews of all relevant project data. The expert should not accept any engagement that requires ignoring or excluding the failings of the client.
Once the charter and role of the expert have been properly established, the process by which the expert prepares his/her report is typically organised into four broad phases: familiarisation, inves-tigation and data gathering, fact fi nding and evaluation and presentation of reports and conclusions. Through-out all phases, it is important that the expert participate in periodic reviews with legal counsel.
The familiarisation phase: This phase is essential to effective interpretation and participation in a claim. In addition to providing the necessary overview of the project and an understanding of the claim theories and issues involved, it provides a sound basis for planning, organising and conducting the remaining phases with maximum effi ciency. This phase includes two tasks:
1. Review of the project’s requirements: An initial understanding of the project is accomplished by thoroughly reviewing all contract documents, including the plans and specifi cations.
2. Review of overall submission with legal counsel: In situations where a defendant receives a delay and/or cost impact claim, it is additionally suggested that an independent and detailed review of the overall claim submission should be made in consultation with legal counsel.
“THE ABILITY TO WRITE A COHESIVE REPORT IN
COLLABORATION WITH THE COUNSEL IS CRITICAL TO THE
OUTCOME OF THE CASE”
2nd North Africa and Middle East Solar Conference & Expo
How to fi nance, develop and build utility scale solar projects in MENA
THE PREMIER SOLAR EVENT FOR NORTH AFRICA AND MIDDLE EAST
MENASOL 2010
TO
QUAL
IFY
FOR DISCOUNT
QUOTECW
£150OFF
TO FIND OUT MORE:■ Latest agenda and speakers: www.newsolartoday.com/solar-conference■ Sponsoring or exhibiting: Mark Wheeler, Business Development Director +44 20 7375 7177 or email [email protected]■ Getting involved: Heidi Hafes, Events Director +44 207 375 7206 or email [email protected]
MAY 4 – 5 2010, CAIRO, EGYPT
1. Site Visit; Unique opportunity to visit the Integrated Solar Combined Cycle Power Plant (ISCC) Kuraymat and talk with delegates outside the conference room as you get up close to this exciting plant..
2. Online Networking; connect with top level delegates, speakers and sponsors before and after the event and build relationships with the people that really matter.
3. Workshops; extra value with our free to attend workshops that offers another way to network and gain more information on cooling methods for multi MW sized CSP power plants and solar desalination
■ SOLAR TARGETS COUNTRY-BY-COUNTRY - gain exclusive insight into the government mandated targets to develop utility scale solar plants that are driving growth in various territories
■ BEST STRATEGIES TO SECURE SOLAR FINANCE - hear directly from the top international organisations and expert private investors on how to gain the funding you need to develop your next solar project
■ TERRITORY SPECIFIC SOLAR TECHNOLOGY CHOICES -benefi t from a comprehensive guide on what technology is best suited for each country, enabling you to make the most profi table choices for your plant
■ WHAT UTILITIES WANT FROM SOLAR - fi nd out directly from utility companies how they plan to work with solar technology and get the insider knowlegde that will help you develop long-term partnerships with them
■ SOLAR PROJECTS UPDATE - uncover practical tips and advice by hearing real life lessons from up and running plants and hear about the latest upcoming projects that can present new opportunities for your business and
■ SOLAR DESALINATION POTENTIAL IN MENA - prepare your business for the next big solar advancement in the MENA region and fi nd out exactly what you need to know to make the most of this growth opportunity
Speakers include: Abengoa, Desertec, Masdar, Acciona, Orascom, Mediterranean Solar Plan, UN, League of Arab States, UN, and Adwec
WHAT IS NEW FOR 2010?
The conference provided the perfect venue for those who are serious about the solar industry in the MENA to move forward with their business plansSamer Zureikat, MENA Cleantech
The conference was an excellent way to meet the players in the MENA Solar Market. There were some eye-opening discussions that were held. On the whole, it was a very valuable experience for meMohit Abraham, US Digital
A good mix of technology aspects along with interesting economic global views to better understand the CSP business development in the MENA regionAntoine Echard Delta Solar System
Why is MENASOL 2010 key to your business strategy? Hear what the people said about our event in 2009…
DESERTEC and the Solar Plan are the biggest and most promising co-operation projects the Mediterranean region has seen in a long time. We want to get serious about installing Clean Power from Deserts. MENASOL 2010 plays an important role in the DESERTEC Foundation’s efforts to coordinate and communicate with all the stakeholders: Governments and private sector, industry, academia and civil societyOliver Steinmetz, Desertec
MENASOL 2010 has attracted leading players in the solar industry to discuss the development and fi nancing of solar energy in a region with enormous potentialSimon Monk, Instrata Capital
MENASOL is the top conference for the leaders in renewable energy business to connect and exchange best practicesChristian von Tschirschky, AT Kearney
Why is MENASOL 2010 the premier solar event for the region? Hear what the speakers have to say…
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201018
LEGAL> For more legal advice log on to www.ConstructionWEEKonline.com/comment
The emergence of Asian construction contractors in the Middle EastMARK RAYMONT EXAMINES THE RISE AND RISE OF CONTRACTING GIANTS FROM THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION AND WHAT THAT MEANS FOR GULF BUSINESS
In recent years, the Middle East has proved to be one of the most attractive construction and engineering markets in the world for international contractors. Notwithstanding the present global economic climate, parts of the Middle East continue to present signifi cant opportunities and many global construction contractors are active in the region. Among the most prominent are construction contractors who are head-quartered in the Asia Pacifi c area, as is illustrated by some of the more high-profi le projects in the Middle East, where construction contractor consortia have include many of the major Japanese and South Korean construction fi rms.
This is demonstrated in microcosm in the United Arab Emirates. In Dubai, for example, Japanese contractors have been heavily involved in constructing the Dubai Metro and the joint venture involved in the construction of the recently opened Burj Khalifa (previously known as the Burj Dubai) was led by South Korea’s Samsung.
The profi le of Asian contractors in the Middle East is therefore higher than per-haps at any time in the recent past. Part of this may be explained by the dominance of Asia-based contractors in the global con-struction market generally – as reported in the ENR 2009 Top 225 Global Contractors, 10 of the top 25 construction contractors came from Asia.
The current levels of activity of Asian con-tractors in the Gulf region can perhaps be attributed, at least in part, to two issues: the effect of the 1997 Asian economic crisis; and the close economic relationship between Asia and the Middle East.
The effect of the Asian economic crisis is perhaps the most signifi cant. While some Asian countries were affected more than others by the economic crisis, the net effect was to reduce economic activity and dent fi nancial confi dence throughout the region with the inevitable reduction in the num-ber and value of the construction projects
Raymont is a Partner at Pinsent Masons based in Dubai. He advises contractors, employers and suppliers in the Construction & Engineering, Oil & Gas, and Power sectors and has worked extensively in Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. His particular expertise is in relation to advising on contract management, risk avoidance and dispute resolution in connection with complex, large-scale projects around the world with a particular focus on the Asia Pacific Region and the Middle East.
event increasingly looked towards generat-ing a greater proportion of their revenue from overseas. The Asian economic crisis speeded up the process. The Middle East was an obvious target given its appetite for infrastructure development and expansion of the Petrochem sector and its fi nancial ability to support the high value construc-tion development across the region.
Moreover, historical trade ties between Asia and the Middle East have been strong. The Middle East is one of the principal sources of energy supply for the Asia region. Moving in the other direction, traditionally China, Japan, and South Korea have been among the major providers of engineering goods and services to the Gulf region. Asian companies had therefore entered the Gulf markets at a relatively early stage, gaining experience in dealing with the logistical issues involved in transporting labour and materials into the region thereby facili-tating the expansion of their Middle East construction and engineering operations.
While nothing is certain, it is likely that given the current fi nancial climate and in particular the continued primacy of price and quality competitiveness in the let-ting of construction projects, the profi le of Asian contractors in the Middle East is likely to continue to increase for the foreseeable future.
“MOREOVER, HISTORICAL TRADE TIES BETWEEN ASIA AND THE MIDDLE EAST HAVE BEEN STRONG. THE MIDDLE EAST IS ONE OF THE PRINCIPAL SOURCES OF ENERGY SUPPLY FOR THE ASIA REGION”
that achieved fi nancing. The traditional home and regional markets on the large construction contractors in Asia became signifi cantly more competitive.
While Asian contractors have been active in markets outside the Asia-Pacifi c region for many years, the 1997 crisis caused some of the larger Asian contractors to look more closely at entering overseas markets through exploiting their traditional strengths in resourcing and procuring large-scale construction projects. Facing dwindling government, domestic and corporate spending at home, Japanese and Korean contractors in particular had in any
THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BURJ KHALIFA WAS LED BY SOUTH KOREA’S SAMSUNG.
CA
RES
Sust
aina
ble
Rei
nfor
cing
St
eel
Ind
epen
den
t, im
pa
rtia
l and
trus
ted
Giv
es Y
ou
PLU
S
For f
urth
er in
form
atio
n ab
out C
ARE
S an
d an
up-
to-d
ate
list o
f man
ufac
ture
rs a
nd s
uppl
iers
ho
ldin
g C
ARE
S ce
rtific
atio
n pl
ease
con
sult
the
CA
RES
web
site:
ww
w.u
kcar
es.c
om
Alte
rnat
ivel
y, c
onta
ct th
e of
fice:
-
UK
Cer
tifica
tion
Aut
horit
y fo
r Rei
nfor
cing
Ste
els,
Pem
brok
e H
ouse
, 21
Pem
brok
e Ro
ad,
Seve
noak
s, Ke
nt T
N13
1XR
Tele
phon
e - 0
1732
450
000
Fax
- 017
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5591
7E-
mai
l - g
ener
al@
ukca
res.c
om
CARE
S Pr
oduc
t Ce
rtifi
catio
n
•Q
ualit
y M
anag
emen
t Sys
tem
to
ISO
900
1
•Ve
rified
com
plia
nce
with
Pr
oduc
t Sta
ndar
ds
• F
ull p
rodu
ct tr
acea
bilit
y
• M
onito
ring
of s
chem
e pe
rform
ance
•A
void
unn
eces
sary
site
del
ays
• N
o ne
ed fo
r pro
duct
test
data
cer
tifica
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CARE
S Su
stai
nabl
e Re
info
rcin
g St
eel
• E
nviro
nmen
tal M
anag
emen
t Sys
tem
to
ISO
1400
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• C
ompl
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ith re
gula
tory
re
quire
men
ts
• E
nerg
y ef
ficie
ncy
and
low
er
carb
on e
miss
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• I
ndep
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val
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arbo
n fo
otpr
int d
ata
• R
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labi
lity
of s
teel
pro
duct
s
•Pr
oduc
t tra
ceab
ility
to p
rodu
ctio
n so
urce
and
man
ufac
turin
g pr
oces
s
Requ
irem
ents
for s
usta
inab
le p
rodu
cts
are
incr
easin
gly
bein
g ad
opte
d by
con
struc
tion
indu
stry
clie
nts
who
now
hav
e a
duty
to
know
wha
t has
bee
n do
ne in
thei
r nam
e. T
o ac
hiev
e C
ARE
S su
stain
abili
ty c
ertif
icat
ion,
a re
info
rcin
g ste
el m
anuf
actu
rer’s
or
proc
esso
r’s p
rodu
ct a
s w
ell a
s hi
s qu
ality
and
env
ironm
enta
l m
anag
emen
t sys
tem
mus
t be
asse
ssed
and
app
rove
d by
CA
RES.
Th
is in
clud
es a
sses
smen
t to
the
rele
vant
pro
duct
sta
ndar
d an
d to
en
viro
nmen
tal i
ssue
s su
ch a
s gl
obal
war
min
g em
issio
ns a
nd ra
w
mat
eria
l use
.
Pro
duc
t tra
cea
bili
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pro
duc
tion
sour
ce a
nd m
anu
fact
urin
g p
roce
ss
Rein
forc
ing
steel
pro
duct
s pr
oduc
ed b
y C
ARE
S ap
prov
ed fi
rms
are
fully
trac
eabl
e th
roug
hout
the
entir
e su
pply
cha
in, f
rom
hot
m
etal
to d
eliv
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of s
teel
to th
e co
nstru
ctio
n sit
e. C
ARE
S re
quire
s an
unb
roke
n ch
ain
betw
een
the
steel
pro
duce
r and
the
cons
truct
ion
site,
thus
ena
blin
g th
e lo
cal e
nd-u
ser t
o kn
ow th
e pr
oduc
tion
sour
ce a
nd m
anuf
actu
ring
proc
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s us
ed.
All
rein
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steel
s pr
oduc
ed b
y C
ARE
S ap
prov
ed fi
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are
uniq
uely
iden
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Whe
n ste
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n sit
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furth
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sting
is re
quire
d, re
sulti
ng
in a
void
ance
of u
ndue
and
cos
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elay
s at
the
cons
truct
ion
site.
Com
plia
nce
wit
h R
egul
ato
ry
req
uire
men
ts
Gov
ernm
ents
have
suc
ceed
ed in
driv
ing
susta
inab
ility
hig
h up
the
agen
da in
man
y w
alks
of l
ife, a
nd le
gisla
tion
has
com
e in
to fo
rce
to s
uppo
rt su
stain
abili
ty ta
rget
s.
The
resp
onsib
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for c
ompl
ianc
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ith le
gal r
equi
rem
ents
and
stand
ards
rests
abs
olut
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with
the
appr
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firm
. CA
RES
asse
ssm
ents
and
on-g
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aud
its p
rovi
de a
ssur
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quire
men
ts co
ntin
ue to
be
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Det
ails
of a
ppro
vals
are
mai
ntai
ned
in a
n up
date
d fo
rm a
nd
appe
ar o
n a
list o
f app
rove
d fir
ms
kept
on
the
CA
RES
web
site
(ww
w.u
kcar
es.c
om).
Ind
epen
den
tly
va
lida
ted
ca
rbo
n fo
otp
rint
da
ta
Gre
enho
use
Gas
(GH
G) e
miss
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estim
ates
for a
firm
can
var
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idel
y de
pend
ing
on w
ho p
repa
res
the
data
, wha
t ass
umpt
ions
ha
ve b
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mad
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hich
met
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of e
stim
atio
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used
and
whe
re
orga
nisa
tiona
l bou
ndar
ies
are
draw
n.
Volu
ntar
y di
sclo
sure
s of f
irms’
perfo
rman
ce d
ata
may
tend
to e
rr on
th
e sid
e of
self
inte
rest
and
criti
cal e
xam
inat
ion
and
adju
stmen
t is
requ
ired
befo
re su
ch d
ata
can
be u
sed
with
con
fiden
ce b
y th
ose
seek
ing
to u
nder
stand
if a
par
ticul
ar su
pplie
r may
be
used
or n
ot.
Emiss
ions
cal
cula
tions
by
CA
RES
appr
oved
firm
s w
ill b
e un
derp
inne
d by
a s
yste
m o
f agr
eed
calc
ulat
ion
met
hodo
logi
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cons
isten
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inde
pend
ent v
erifi
catio
n.
Ma
nag
emen
t Sys
tem
s to
ISO
900
1 a
nd IS
O 1
4001
The
CA
RES
Susta
inab
le R
einf
orci
ng S
teel
cer
tific
atio
n sc
hem
e is
conc
erne
d w
ith e
nsur
ing
that
app
rove
d fir
ms
oper
ate
to th
e hi
ghes
t sta
ndar
ds o
f pro
duct
as
wel
l as
man
agem
ent s
yste
m a
nd
envi
ronm
enta
l sys
tem
com
plia
nce.
The
ISO
900
1 an
d IS
O
1400
1man
agem
ent s
yste
m s
tand
ards
are
use
d to
pro
vide
the
nece
ssar
y le
vel o
f ass
uran
ce a
nd c
onfid
ence
to th
e en
d-us
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of
rein
forc
ing
steel
s an
d re
late
d pr
oduc
ts. T
hese
man
agem
ent
syste
ms,
if pr
oper
ly o
pera
ted,
ena
ble
firm
s to
hav
e ro
bust
data
co
llect
ion
and
repo
rting
sys
tem
s. It
is th
e ro
le o
f CA
RES
to a
udit
such
sys
tem
s an
d to
per
iodi
cally
ver
ify th
at th
ey a
re b
eing
op
erat
ed e
ffect
ivel
y.
CA
RES
Sust
aina
ble
Rein
forc
ing
Stee
l Sch
eme
For f
urth
er in
form
atio
n ab
out C
ARE
S an
d an
up-
to-d
ate
list o
f man
ufac
ture
rs a
nd s
uppl
iers
ho
ldin
g C
ARE
S ce
rtific
atio
n pl
ease
con
sult
the
CA
RES
web
site:
ww
w.u
kcar
es.c
om
Alte
rnat
ivel
y, c
onta
ct th
e of
fice:
-
UK
Cer
tifica
tion
Aut
horit
y fo
r Rei
nfor
cing
Ste
els,
Pem
brok
e H
ouse
, 21
Pem
brok
e Ro
ad,
Seve
noak
s, Ke
nt T
N13
1XR
Tele
phon
e - 0
1732
450
000
Fax
- 017
32 4
5591
7E-
mai
l - g
ener
al@
ukca
res.c
om
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201020
INTERVIEWCATHY CROCKER
The ‘huge proportion’ of the electrical load consumed by air-con has resulted in a large scale focus on effi ciency measures to try and reduce this consumption. “Over the last eight to ten years, developers have focused on how we can reduce the electrical consumption for cooling. A district cooling solution, in the correct application, with the correct design, can consume up to 55% less energy than the equivalent standalone cooling system,” is Crocker’s main argument.
However, it is also important to try to reduce energy consumption at the source, which means the buildings themselves. This, in turn, means that building services designers play a critical role from very early on. “Basi-cally site selection and the outline design stage are, in my opinion, the key time for the design team to get together to lay a good foundation for a building design.
“This is the time at which you can get the building orientation right, the build-ing form and the building fabric. These three elements have a huge impact on the energy consumption of a building through-out its life.”
CHANGE“No one will thank a designer, after a detailed design, for suggesting a change in orientation, even if it does bring about a huge reduction in cooling load,” argues Crocker. “Clients, engineers, architects and sustainability consultants really need to get together from day one to agree on a good methodology for the design of a building or the design of a site, so they have a good foundation for an energy-effi cient solution.” What elements need to be taken into account in the early design stages? “Building orientation is obviously the key to reducing energy consumption,” points out Crocker. “Here in Dubai it is the early sun in the morning and the late sun in the
evening that has the ability to penetrate deepest into the building, and these are the areas we need to concentrate on. The overhead sun, while it has a strong irradiation, does not penetrate as far because it is higher overhead.”
Crocker refers to a project in Dubai where Scott Wilson worked with the architects to come up with a self-shading solution. The building com-prised three wings, and to protect the building against the low morning and evening sunshine, a heavyweight, opaque façade was applied to the east and west. “This fairly simple approach had a huge effect on the heat gain, so the building did not suffer from high temperatures in the morning and evening, and we could really drive down the cooling loads,” explains Crocker.
The next critical element for the design to consider is the building fabric. “If we can get the correct building fabric in terms of thermal mass and UV value, we can dra-matically reduce the peak cooling load. This, in turn, will drive down the energy consumption and size of equipment,” says Crocker.
“Another element which I think is very important for designers to consider is infi l-tration – the unwanted passage of air in each building due to external pressures. We need to make sure that buildings are well-sealed so that the hot external air does not come into our building and add to the cooling load. This is a design issue, and also a site issue, to make sure that the buildings are detailed and constructed correctly.
“Over recent years, building services designers in the UAE have become more familiar with energy-effi ciency mea-
TAKE A LOAD OFFCW SPEAKS TO SCOTT WILSON ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR: BUILDING SERVICES CATHY CROCKER
“JUST BY RAISING THE
SETPOINT FROM 21°C IN SUMMER UP TO 25°C YOU
ALMOST HALVE YOUR MW/H OF COOLING
CONSUMPTION”CATHY CROCKER.
21FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
> For more people interviews log on to www.ConstructionWEEKonline.com
sures. Variable speed drives, heat recovery and other measures are being implemented more and more into buildings now as a matter of course, which is great for energy consumption,” says Crocker.
She says that Scott Wilson’s favoured design approach, wherever possible, is deemed ‘mix match’. “In essence it just means turning off the air-con when you do not need it. You have to have a build-ing that is designed correctly to enable natural ventilation – that is, opening win-dows and a shallow-plan fl oor plate. In certain periods of the year in Dubai, we do have the capability of turning the air-con off completely.
to ensure that areas are well lit through natural means wherever possible.”
So what does all this boil down to? Do all the ‘green’ platitudes translate easily into what Crocker terms the ‘construction reality’? “I think it is all very well designing a good building and having good inten-tions, but we need to make sure this is fol-lowed through into construction. Here in the Middle East, some buildings are well built, and some are not. As a design team it is our responsibility to work together so that the intent at the design stage is worked through into installation.
“A key area we need to work harder on I think is commissioning, putting the building to use and making sure it is up and running correctly before it is handed over to the client. If the building is not set up correctly at hand-over, then the client/operator can never be expected to run the building correctly.”
“An interesting debate in the UK recently is energy certifi cation of buildings. A number of public buildings are getting a rating from ‘A’ to ‘F’, which informs the public at large and the occupier how well the building is performing. I think it will be an interesting analysis in this part of the world to begin considering some form of energy certifi ca-tion,” says Crocker.
How does the design phase interface with district cooling, for example, in terms of energy effi ciency? “District cooling has been a popular way of providing cooling to large developments and large areas. The way we approach district cooling systems is, fi rst
of all, to take a good long look at the site, at the buildings on the site, and how they will be used.”
CONFIGURATION“When we work out a district cooling network we look at the best confi guration, which is obviously informed by the site phasing, the load profi le and then the remote station size. And that, in turn, generates a footprint area for the district cooling plant. The district cooling plant size is generated purely by the load it carries.
“So to return to my earlier point: if we can achieve a 30% reduction in energy use through purely building measures, we can in turn reduce district cooling plant sizes, whereby you can service an increased area through the same plant. Our aim is to really try and demonstrate how interlinked all these elements are. If we can work very hard on the building systems, we can infl uence the larger utilities infrastructure.
“In conclusion, I believe it is very impor-tant for designers to work very hard from day one of design to reduce the electrical load at source. We need to incorporate passive design measures such as orienta-tion, shading and daylighting, and active design measures such as mixed-mode ven-tilation and even turning off the air-con and raising the setpoints. That, in turn, will provide benefi ts to the clients and developers through releasing commercial space, reducing energy consumption and, of course, reducing capital and running costs,” says Crocker. �
AN EXAMPLE OF AN ENERGY-EFFICIENCT HOTEL PROJECT THAT SCOTT WILSON HAS WORKED ON.
30%REDUCTION IN ENERGY USE THROUGH PASSIVE DESIGN
MEASURES ALONE
TURN OFF“The best way to reduce energy use is to turn off the system completely,” Crocker says simply. She acknowledges that this can be problematic in terms of dust and noise, but these issues can be addressed successfully at the design stage. “For residential buildings or leisure facilities, it is very important for us to be able to design buildings so they can be ventilated naturally in winter, as that will save a huge amount of energy.
“Another consideration is really to think about increasing the setpoint of the air-con. Just by raising the setpoint from 21°C in summer up to 25°C you almost halve your MW/h of cooling consumption,” argues Crocker. Similarly, the design process also needs to take daylighting into account. “Ther-mal analysis allows us to experiment with different window designs to ensure we get the correct balance between window size and minimising solar gain. It is a bit of a fi ne balance because obviously we do not want to introduce too much heat, but we also need
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23FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
HERE ARE SIX ACTIVE ROADING PROJECTS THAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
6
SALAM STREET & MINA ROAD DEVELOPMENT PHASE 1 (ABU
DHABI)Client: Abu Dhabi Municipality & Town Planning DepartmentEstimated value: US $1.4 billionDescription: The project focuses on development of Salam Street & Mina Road, a key route into and out of Abu Dhabi. Once completed, the road’s capacity will be increased to more than 6000 cars per hour in each direction. Work includes construction of a 3.1 km, eight-lane tunnel, and the construction of 1.2 km of roads leading into and out of the tunnel. This will serve projects on Reem, Suwa, Saadiyat islands and the Mina area to the east of Abu Dhabi Island. A joint venture of Saif Bin Darwish Engineering Co. and Samsung Engineering & Construction was awarded the main construction contract early in 2008.Schedule: Construction started in May 2008 and completion is pencilled in for the end of 2010.
MAFRAQ-GHWEIFAT HIGHWAY (UAE WESTERN REGION)
OF THE BEST:
TOP GCCROAD PROJECTS
Private developers may be having their diffi culties, but oil-rich governments in the region continue to invest in infrastructure. Thanks to new urban development and rampant growth in car usage, road building is one area where they are really focusing their efforts right now.
Saudi Arabia allocated US $3.17 billion in its 2010 budget for construction of 6400 kilometres of roads. Last year, the country set aside SR 11.5 billion (US $3.06 billion) for road construction.
In Dubai, where many freehold residential projects remain in limbo, the powerful Road & Transport Authority has allocated US $2 billion for project development in 2010. The money will cover around 129 jobs, 13 of which will be new.
While it may not be glamorous, road building is big business and there are opportunities galore for contractors and suppliers focused on the sector. Here, we look at six of the GCC’s most valuable road construction projects.
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Client: Abu Dhabi Department of Transport
Estimated value: US $2.7 billionDescription: The Department of Transport is offering a 25 year concession to upgrade, operate and maintain the Mafraq-Ghweifat Highway. The project will see the highway widened to four lanes in each direction (three around Ghweifat) and upgraded to meet international standards in design and safety.The road, which stretches 327 km from Mafraq to the border at Ghweifat, provides the only access route to the Western Region, including the industrial centre of Ruwais and several tourist destinations.Payment to the winning consortium will be made via a series of equal payments spread over the 25 year period. These ongoing payments will be subject to deductions for failure to meet the prescribed performance
standards and will ensure the consortium remains accountable for the operational performance of the road over the 25 year period.In early February (2010), the Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi received bids from three international consortia competing for the 25 year concession to upgrade, operate and maintain the motorway. Amongst the three that made bids were Irtibaat, including Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank; Construtora Norberto Odebrecht; Besix, Al Jaber, Mouchel Middle East and others; Mafraq Motorway Group, including Strabag SE; Saif Bin Darwish; Joannou & Paraskevaides, Egis Projects and others; and MTD-CSCEC Consortium, including MTD Group; China State Engineering Construction Company and Ghantoot Transport.Schedule: Widening and surface improvement work is due to begin this year and end in 2014.
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201024
AL KHOR TO AL RUWAIS ROAD PHASE 3 (QATAR)
Client: Authority of Public WorksEstimated value: US $600 millionScope: The project involves further development of the Al Khor to Al Ruwais
Road. The road is 61 kilometres long and will include four lanes in each direction. It will also feature 11 cloverleaf junctions and five tunnels. Dar Al Handasah is the project consultant. Tekfen Construction was awarded the main construction contract in October 2008.Schedule: Construction work started in late 2008 and is due for completion in 2010.
BATINAH COASTAL ROAD PHASE 1 (OMAN)
Client: Supreme Committee for Town PlanningEstimated value: US $712 millionDescription: The 241 km Batinah Coastal Road project involves construction of a four-lane carriageway (two lanes on each side) running from Naseem Garden to Khatmat Malaha in Wilayat Shinas. Work will take place in two phases.Phase 1 of the project has been split into two packages. Package 1, worth US $325 million, was awarded to Turkey’s Makyol. It involves construction of a 60km road from Naseem roundabout to Sayyid Said bin Sultan Naval Base at Wudam Al Sahel in the Wilayat of Musannah. Package 2, worth US $387 million, was awarded to India’s Nagarjuna Construction Company. It requires construction of a 65.7km road from Majees roundabout in Sohar to Khatmat Malaha.Construction of the remaining stretch of the road, around 116km, will be covered in Phase 2 of the project.Al Rajhi Company has been contracted to build 2200 homes for people displaced by the new road.Schedule: Work on Phase 1 is underway and scheduled to fi nish in 2012. A time frame for Phase 2 has not been released.
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AL KHAIL ROAD UPGRADES PHASES 1-4 (DUBAI)Client: Roads and Transport Authority
Estimated cost: US $591.5 million (US $157 million for Phase 1, US $232.1 million for Phase 2, US $119.4 million for Phase 3 and US $83 million for Phase 4)Scope: The Al Khail Road Upgrade project involves widening and improving a 15km stretch of Al Khail Road between the junctions at Muscat Road and Emirates Road. The existing road will be widened from four lanes to six throughout and the roundabouts along this stretch will be turned into fl yovers to allow the uninterrupted fl ow of traffi c. New slip roads and interchanges will be added to enable access to the new residential developments along this stretch. Al Khail Road will also be extended by nine kilometres to connect it to Dubai Bypass Road. All four phases of work are currently underway, with completion at around 80% on Phase 1 and 45% on Phase 4 (February 2010). Gunal Construction, Wade Adams and Ascon are amongst the contractors involved in the project. Schedule: Work on all four phases is underway and is due for completion in stages in 2010 and 2011.
PARALLEL ROADS PHASE 4 (DUBAI)Client: Roads and Transport AuthorityEstimated value: US $500 million
Scope: Phase 4 of the parallel roads project includes construction of 31 kilometres of eight-lane roads connecting Dubai Industrial City and Jebel Ali Free Zone South between Sheikh Zayed Road and Emirates Road. Al-Naboodah Contracting was awarded the contact to execute the project in mid 2008.Schedule: Work began in mid 2008 and is expected to take two years.
> For more top 10s visit www.ConstructionWEEKonline.com
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27FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
CONSTRUCTION WEEK SPEAKS TO MAJOR AIR-CON COMPANIES ABOUT HOW THEY ARE MEETING THE INCREASED DEMAND FOR ENERGY-EFFICIENT PRODUCTS
By Gerhard Hope
GREENCOOLING
Air-con accounts for up to 70% of the total electrical output in the GCC. This has resulted in a large-scale focus on energy-effi ciency measures
to try and reduce this consumption. “Over the last eight to ten years, developers have focused on how we can reduce the electrical consumption for cooling,” says Scott Wil-son associate director of building services Cathy Crocker.
This has resulted in a major focus on dis-trict cooling in the region. “A district cooling solution, in the correct application, with the correct design, can consume up to 55% less energy than the equivalent standalone cooling system,” says Crocker. However, it is equally important to try and reduce energy consumption at the source, which means the buildings themselves – and this is where the latest developments in air-con technology are playing a major role.
LG Electronics senior sales manager Dharmesh Sawant says that “of late there has been a high interest in environment-friendly air-conditioners.” Trane Middle East, Africa and India region marketing manager Peter Blanchfl ower adds: “The
energy-effi ciency drive is moving away from individual components like chillers to a more holistic system overview (‘system’ kW per ton).
“A high-effi ciency chiller does not auto-matically translate into a high-effi ciency system. The pumps, cooling towers and controls must all be integrated to mini-mise the energy consumption of the entire system.”
ECO-FRIENDLY REFRIGERANTSawant points to the Multi V, LG’s premium-brand inverter system. This VRF air-conditioner uses a new eco-friendly refrigerant and high-effi ciency inverter. The new inverter allows for optimal control of a single large compressor, based on multi-compressor technology comprising a DC inverter compressor and high-effi ciency, constant-speed compressor. The adoption of this technology has enabled precise control dependant on the cooling/heating load, leading to ultra energy-effi cient heating and cooling.
“LG Electronics is currently focusing on eco-friendly air-conditioners, whereby the carbon dioxide emissions are controlled throughout the lifecycle from design and
CONSTRUCTION WEEK SPEAKS TO MAJOR AIR-CON COMPANIES ABOUT HOW THEY ARE MEETING THE INCREASED DEMAND FOR ENERGY-EFFICIENT PRODUCTS
By Gerhard Hope
GREENCOOLING
manufacturing to usage and disposal, thus allowing the products to be more energy-effi cient. In the past few years, LG’s resi-dential air-conditioner segment has wit-nessed enormous growth, together with an expanding market share in commercial air-conditioners, all due to its high energy-effi ciency technology.”
The latest development is LG’s innova-tive hybrid energy solution systems such as Hybrid COGEN and Hybrid XEO, which has further demonstrated the company’s capabilities in energy-savings and cost reduc-tion. Hybrid COGEN simultaneously gener-ates electricity and heat, utilising liquefi ed natural gas (LNG).
Hybrid COGEN uses 32% less energy, while also reducing the emission of envi-ronmental pollutants such as carbon dioxide gas. Hybrid XEO, a hybrid air-conditioning system, combines a highly-effi cient, energy-saving inverter system air-conditioner with geothermal heat pumps, one of the most innovative renewable energy solutions. Hybrid XEO is said to reduce energy con-sumption by about by 30% a year.
LATEST TRENDSAs to the latest trends in the industry, Sawant says: “The HVAC industry has developed
A SUSTAINABLE HOTEL BUILDING SERVICES DESIGN BY SCOTT WILSON, WHERE ENERGY-EFFICIENCT HVAC PLAYED A MAJOR ROLE.
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201028
rapidly in recent years, and the market for HVAC products has been expanding consistently. It has also been catering more for eco-friendly products. The continuous increase in the number of supermarkets and shopping malls has provided an impetus to the growth of the market for commercial refrigeration and cold chain equipment. This certainly highlights the fact that the HVAC industry in the UAE will undergo many changes and expansion within the next fi ve to ten years.
“Through sustainable product manage-ment, LG Electronics is helping to promote environmental awareness in society at large. Our motto is: ‘Life’s good when it’s green …’ Our eco-products will go a long way in helping to create a safer, cleaner world. LG Electronics is committed to establish-ing clear operational accountability, and
ENERGY EFFICIENCYIn terms of energy effi ciency, Thomas boldly claims that Panasonic is the undisputed industry leader: “Recent tests carried out by ITS, and also by our internal laboratories, show clearly that our energy-effi ciency ratio as per industry standards is the highest. If customers require any documentation in this regard, Panasonic can provide this for purposes of comparison.” As for the main market drivers, Thomas says growth will invariably come from the major markets such as Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Trane’s new GM for the Middle East, Africa and India region Nigel Hawley says: “Our growth initiatives are focused on market expansion (Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and India) and new product introductions. With regard to the latter, we are especially excited by our new AquaStream range of air-cooled chillers, which are equipped with high-effi ciency scroll compressors.
“We are also focusing on expansion of services (maintenance, repairs, parts, etc.), new offerings from our controls and con-tracting businesses, while we also aim to attract, develop and retain the best talent in the industry.
“Despite the current market we stay fi xed on a strategy of profi table growth based on aggressive new product introductions, market expansion and, of course, provid-ing even better levels of customer service.” Hawley adds that the district cooling and unitary business segments have been “badly affected by the market downturn, especially in Dubai, and I do not expect to see this changing dramatically in 2010.”
creating products that not only enhance consumers’ lives, but which also encourage an environmentally responsible lifestyle,” concludes Sawant.
Panasonic Middle East FZE senior man-ager: consumer electronics department Abby Thomas says his company’s key focus area for 2010 will be split air-conditioners, fol-lowed by large-room air-conditioners using ducted units.
“In the case of split air-conditioners, our aim is to provide for multi-functional products. In the case of large-room air-conditioners, we would like to focus on thin indoor ducted and quiet operational units.” Thomas says that consumer trends or patterns have been changing rapidly, with such new additional requirements as a quick air-cleaning facility and humidity control for both the residential and commercial sectors.
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“AIR-CON ACCOUNTS FOR UP TO 70% OF THE TOTAL ELECTRICAL OUTPUT IN
THE GCC”
CATHY CROCKER, SCOTT WILSON.
“OF LATE THERE HAS BEEN A HIGH INTEREST IN ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLY
AIR-CONDITIONERS”
DHARMESH SAWANT, LG ELECTRONICS.
“THE RIGHT HVAC SYSTEM IS CRITICAL TO GREEN
BUILDING”NIGEL HAWLEY, TRANE.
PETER BLANCHFLOWER OF TRANE. ABBY THOMAS OF PANASONIC.
THE MOVE TO GREENCommenting on the move to green, Hawley says: “We detect a greater emphasis on indoor air quality from owners and developers, which is also driving demand for more sophisticated and effi cient selections. We are the global leader in direct drive, low-pressure, high-effi ciency centrifugal chillers, which is the industry’s preferred choice for large district cooling projects.
“Trane’s philosophy is to produce and sell the most energy-effi cient and environmentally-responsible HVAC systems and solutions possible. Refrigerant change is a constant in our industry. Last year was particularly exciting and challenging as a result of the US decision to stop producing equipment with R22 from 31 December 2009.
“This was the catalyst for a massive redesign project that resulted in Trane introducing more new models in 2009 than we had in the previous 20 years. But I want to be clear that this redesign process went much fur-ther than simply regulatory compliance. We used this opportunity to further raise the
performance of our range in areas where we already lead the fi eld.
“Even in markets like the Middle East, which are not being driven by legislation, we are seeing increasing interest and demand for newer environmentally responsible and effi cient product ranges, and we are happy and determined to remain at the forefront of these developments,” says Hawley. Trane’s offering for 2010 focuses on the following products: AquaStream (CGAM scroll chill-ers, being the top of the range in the market from a quality, effi ciency and durability perspective), new R410a unitary products, a new TVR product (VRF application), chilled beams and eddy current testing.
Hawley says that the demand for environ-mentally responsible buildings is growing as people realise it is not a cost, but a wise investment. Green buildings are designed with energy effi ciency, indoor air quality (IAQ) and sustainable materials in mind. “The right HVAC system is critical to green building. As a leading global supplier of HVAC systems and services, with more
than 450 LEED Accredited Professionals (APs), Trane can help clients achieve their green building goals.”
Commenting on the current business envi-ronment, Hawley says: “I believe 2010 will be just as diffi cult as 2009 – and, in some respects, more diffi cult this time around, as we all know what to expect now. I believe we will continue to see growth in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, but at lower levels than experienced previously. Dubai itself will stay depressed for several years to come, but one has to put things into perspective, there are still more new projects here even today than anywhere else in the world.”
Enhanced effi ciencies achieved with air-con products also translate into more effi cient district cooling. “District cooling has been a popular way of providing cooling to large developments. If we can achieve a 30% reduction in energy use through purely building measures, we can in turn reduce district cooling plant sizes, whereby you can service an increased area through the same plant,” concludes Crocker. �
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23FEBRUARY 13–19, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
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CONTENTS>Introduction 32>Solar power plant 40>Construction partners 43>Energy partners 49
MASDAR CITYZERO CARBON, ZERO WASTE, IS THIS THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT?
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201032
33FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
Masdar City is an experiment. Launched in 2006, it has the grand aim of being the world’s fi rst carbon neu-tral city.
The Abu Dhabi government has been a prime mover
in the plan to bring Masdar to fruition. As a partnership between the government and the private sector, the city is being developed in line with the emirate’s attempts to diversify into not just an industrial economy, but a knowledge-based one as well.
Part of that investment is already paying off through the opening of the Masdar Institute of Science and Technol-ogy (MIST), which accepted its fi rst intake of students last September.
The process of building a carbon neutral city starts with the master plan, where the design team can have an impact on how people use the city.
“I would say it’s a question of how you lay out the city,” says Jürgen Häpp, an associate partner at Foster + Part-ners, and part of the master planning team. “How people live in the city depends on how you see it and lay it out. Lay out, plus the public transport clustered around hubs, are things which infl uence the later result.”
“One fundamental thing about designing a sustainable city is having a fl exible master plan: providing a framework that can be adapted to the needs, which are unknown at the beginning of the planning process.”
Central to making the city carbon neutral was not hav-ing urban spaces dictated by the dimensions of the car. The aim is to build spaces that encourage people to walk and use public transport.
“We went back and tried to learn from history,” says Häpp. “We looked at old cities and their dimensions. These cities are much more successful for people to walk in; buildings are close together and shade each other.”
In these older cities, such as Aleppo in Syria, shading and the local microclimate make for a better walking environment. In Masdar’s case, the plan calls for nar-row streets, with structures of different heights placed close together, combining to manufacture areas where breezes will fl ow.
ROAD TO ZEROBanishing cars to the outskirts of the city makes for a good headline. If the implausible sounding PRT system (personal rapid transit – public transport pods that go
U R BA N E X P E R I M E N TBOLD AMBITIONS AND TOUGH TARGETS FORM THE BACKGROUND TO AN ATTEMPTTO BUILD A ZERO-WASTE, ZERO-CARBONCITY FROM THE GROUND UP
By Stuart Matthews & Conrad Egbert
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201034
“We want to make sure our supply chain is good for us and can achieve our vision,” says Khaled Awad, director of Masdar’s property development unit.
“Without having the supply chain aligned it is impossible to achieve numbers we want. If you look at the whole supply chain, we have to work with each of the components to make sure we achieve our minimum demands.
“We have set ambitious targets, we can’t do it without making sure that each of the components is optimised to deliver on these targets.”
where you want, via 85 planned stations) turns out to be more than a Disneyesque ride and people do walk, it will make a signifi cant contribution to keeping carbon emissions, within the city, down.
But, if aiming to be zero carbon is to be a practical achievement, attention to detail is paramount, all along the supply chain.
This attention to detail has in effect changed the way that some technology providers have been doing business. A partnership with the city project is now starting to be seen as the ‘green’ seal of approval, simply due to exacting nature of Masdar’s demands.
Roberta Gamble, director, Energy & Power
Systems, Frost & Sullivan, discusses the view of
Masdar from abroad.
As someone based in the US, what’s the
overseas perspective of Masdar?
Even though we’ve been researching a lot
of solar and wind projects globally, from
the US, we don’t hear about Masdar
as much as I think we should. Masdar
is gaining international recognition,
but it’s an amazing project that
needs to be advertised further. It
has implications for more than
just the Middle East. It’s also
applicable to Asia, India and the
rest of Africa.
What is so different about the Masdar
concept?
The great thing about Masdar City is that
it’s the full solution – it’s totally sustainable – which is
way ahead of other projects in, say, the US or Europe.
Those regions have been looking at pieces of the puzzle
- whether it’s lowering the carbon footprint, being
sustainable, reducing waste, or reducing dependency
on fossil fuels – but I don’t think we’re really seeing it
all come together in one solution sanctioned by the
government. I really do think it’s the future.
How do you think the concept of renewable energy
will play out in the Gulf?
What I have heard from the gas, oil and renewable energy
industries is that they need all the BTUs and all the
megawatts they can get. When a country or company
wants to become more green, usually the fi rst step is
energy effi ciency. Waste is expensive. But right now,
less than 1% of the installed capacity of electricity in
the MENA region is from renewables. Even if you have
a target of 2% by 2015, that’s still a massive amount of
extra capacity you’re going to have to install. So it will
happen, but it will also take time.
“ONE FUNDAMENTAL THING ABOUT DESIGNING
A SUSTAINABLE CITY IS HAVING A FLEXIBLE
MASTER PLAN: PROVIDING A FRAMEWORK THAT CAN
BE ADAPTED TO THE NEEDS, WHICH ARE UNKNOWN AT
THE BEGINNING OF THE PLANNING PROCESS”
JÜRGEN HÄPP, ARCHITECT, ASSOCIATE PARTNER, FOSTER + PARTNERS
THE ANALYST VIEW
WORK UNDER WAY AT THE MASDAR SITE: THE DEVELOPERS ARE LOOKING AT TEH ENTIRE SUPPLY CHAIN.
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201036
The project has been criticised in some circles for being too ambitious. The large scale and timeline have left questions about the level of practical achievement possible. Should, for instance, the US $22 billion be
have clear design guidelines and as all this planning is starting to mature, I think the pace will increase.”
LINES OF SUPPLYLifecycle assessment calculations are an important part of the product selection process. These are done to establish the carbon value of a product across its entire useful life, from manufacture through to fi nal disposal.
“Unless we have suppliers committed to giving us a lifecycle assessment of their product, how can we know,” says Awad. “We need to understand what the footprint of a product is, of the whole life cycle, how much energy it uses, how much it saves. Then we can see if it is really a good choice for our design.”
While this might seem like it puts increased pressure on suppliers, companies seem hap-py to respond, both for the value of the contracts and the profi le. Richard Grohe, deputy CEO of the bathroom company Han-sgrohe, described it as being a ‘brother in arms’ with an organisation that has similar ideological convictions.
“Being ‘green’ has become a necessity,” he says. “As a supplier you can see it as a risk or an opportunity. Green becoming a necessity means we will have a lot of dif-ferent opportunities coming toward us and we just have to grab them.”
With water being a consumable that takes a great deal of energy to manufacture, sav-ings made in consumption play a big part in reaching zero carbon. The city plans call for the recycling of 90% of grey water and the reduction of network losses to 3%. Water
“BECAUSE WE HAVE THE CHANCE TO START FROM SCRATCH, WE HAVE THE
CHANCE TO USE THE BEST AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGY.
WE DON’T HAVE TO INVENT THINGS”
KHALED AWAD, DIRECTOR, PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT UNIT, MASDAR
A CONCEPT IMAGE OF THE MASDAR/IRENA HEADQUARTERS.
ACHIEVING CARBON NEUTRALITY
Masdar City
Carbon neutrality
Building Design
Energy Effi cient
Energy Generation
Renewable
Transportation
Electric/Solar
Recycling
Waste to energy
Carbon offsetting
Carbon sequestration
Building Design
Conventional
Energy Generation
Oil & Gas
Waste
Landfi ll
Transportation
Fossil fuel
Conventional City
1,100,000 Tonnes CO2
-56%
-24%
-7%
-12%
-1%
80%
13%
7%
invested in testing green innovations within established cities, rather than building a single showpiece? There have also been suggestions that a series of smaller scale projects would produce useable results more quickly. Awad points out that what the development is trying to achieve is meant to be ambitious, but was never intended to happen all at once.
“The city is based on phases,” he says. “The building structures are complex, there is nothing like this in the region and the learning curve has been very steep. Prog-ress will start going faster now because of the knowledge that has been gained. We
MASDAR BELIVES THAT ENERGY SPENT PER CAPITA WILL BE NINE TIMES LESS THAN IN THE UNITED STATES.
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CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201038
use in the home will be minimised via the use of hi-tech appliances and irrigation will cultivate largely native plants.
“We want people to use less than 80 litres of new water, per person, per day,” explains Awad. “This means they must have fi ttings, showers and other things that Hansgrohe develops; so companies like Hansgrohe make up an essential part of supply the chain.
“The quality of product is available, we’re just trying to put it in the right context. Because we have the chance to start from scratch, we have the chance to use the best available technology. We don’t have to invent things.”
FOCAL SHIFTAwad also explains that it has not been enough to think of the building as ‘a component that you had to solve’. Thinking about a building’s standalone carbon neutrality on its own is a step forward, but far more needs to be done if the same is to be achieved on a city-wide scale. Awad sites bottom up pressure to change attitudes to property development, away from the recent focus on waterfront and luxury.
“In the crisis, if we go the way we were going, we would never see the need to change,” he says. “Now, with what happened, there is an opportunity for us to step back and say is this the right way?
“This shift in approach would not have happened without Masdar City. It’s a bottom
up pressure and I think this is positive. We are not in a competition [with developers], we are working with developers and sup-pliers, to make sure our infl uence reaches outside our boundaries.”
The wider impact of the project is starting to be felt, says Awad, in what he calls the ‘Masdar affect’. The feeling is that there has been a lift in regional awareness, thanks to the spread of the ideas being collected together in Masdar City. It’s an infl uence that those involved are noticing too.
“I think the project will be a fantastic suc-cess,” says Bashar Al Saadi, communica-tions manager for Al Falah Holding. “Even if the concept is not adopted by the rest of the world immediately, it will certainly be become a benchmark for countries within the Middle East who have the resources and the space to build cities like these.
“Even the concrete we have supplied to Masdar is 30% more environment friendly than any other concrete available in the market, so there’s no doubt that the city will manage to become a carbon neutral zone.”
For others in the supply chain, it is not about reducing carbon output, but amortising it over a long product lifespan. Doka, which supplied formwork during the construction of MIST (Phase 1A), as well as for other parts of the project, is a case in point.
“One can not say that formwork is carbon neutral,” said Doka marketing manager, Agata Orlowska.
“But we can reduce the carbon emission during the production of formwork and by reducing the percentage of material being damaged and trashed after use. All Doka products (made out of wood and steel) are manufactured in Europe, with the modern technology, abiding by European restrictions and with minimal environmental impact.
“The company’s products are made to be long-lasting, which maximises their life-span and minimises damages. We also buy raw wood material only from certifi cated wood suppliers,” she added.
INTERNATIONAL OUTLOOKWhile development of the city continues just outside the UAE capital, the Masdar organization has also been keen to add investment to overseas companies to assist with the development of sustainable
technologies. Such investment not only means that the entity can take a lead in the roll-out of new products, but it also means that the rest of the world can benefi t as well.
The major investment vehicle in terms of renewable energy has been the Masdar Clean Tech Fund, a US $250 million venture capital fund that was launched in associa-tion with Credit Suisse, Consensus Business Group and Siemens in November 2006. Around US $190 million has already been spent in direct investments in clean tech companies, with the remainder earmarked for leading funds that focus on cutting-edge clean technology.
EXPERIMENTALISMFrom the planning stage, Masdar City offered an opportunity unlike any other. Starting a city from scratch is bold enough, without attaching a host of tough targets, based on emerging technology.
In Abu Dhabi there was the opportunity, which managed to combine with the rare ingredients of political will and funding. But will ‘test-tube city’ as it is often called, really be able to achieve a zero-carbon zero-waste status? And how far will it go
“BEING ‘GREEN’ HAS BECOME A NECESSITY. AS A SUPPLIER YOU CAN SEE IT AS A RISK OR
AN OPPORTUNITY”
RICHARD GROHE, DEPUTY CEO, HANSGROHE
to becoming a model for future sustainable developments?
“Does the world need Masdar City?” Awad asks. “If not, then we may not be aware of what is happening around us; of how cities over the last 50 years have been abusing technology. If we can succeed in achieving our vision, then any city in the world, when it comes to future develop-ment, should be asking itself, ‘why do we not build a Masdar City?’”
Whether the fi nal, complete city is car-bon-neutral or just more environmentally friendly, it’s a step in the right direction – a step that the UAE has been the fi rst to take and in so doing has attracted the attention of the rest of the world. �
“[MASDAR CITY] WILL CERTAINLY BE BECOME
A BENCHMARK FOR COUNTRIES WITHIN THE MIDDLE EAST WHO HAVE
THE RESOURCES AND THE SPACE TO BUILD CITIES
LIKE THESE” BASHAR AL SAADI, AL FALAH HOLDING
30years in the Gulf
and thats only the start
Present in the Gulf since 1978 and
with a full service regional office in
Bahrain since 2000,Technal is more
than ever committed and equipped
to address the fast growing potential
of the region – over the next 30
years and beyond.
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201040
The largest grid-con-nected solar power plant in the Middle East went live in the middle of last year. Built on a 212 000 m2 site in Abu Dhabi, the
plant is a product of the Masdar Initiative and will ultimately power Masdar City’s university. In the meantime though, the renewable energy produced will support the construction of the city itself.
The EPC contractor for the power plant, Enviromena Power Systems, is an Abu Dhabi-based solar systems integrator, designing systems that use existing technology supplied by industry leaders. Relatively speaking, it’s also the new kid on the grid, having been formed in October 2007.
“Abu Dhabi is the epicentre of solar power right now,” said Sami Khoreibi, the com-pany’s president and CEO. “For Masdar this project is the fi rst 10 MW of over sev-eral hundred, potentially. Also with Abu Dhabi’s 7% renewable energy target, you are looking at a potential 1-1.5 GW [of renew-able generation capacity]. Countries that are comfortable with conventional energy, seem to be able to transfer that comfort to renewables.”
The Masdar City plant produces a peak of 10 MW from its 87 777 solar modules. This massive installation contains two dif-ferent types of solar panel, thin fi lm and polycrystalline silicon, in a 50:50 split. Thin fi lm panels offer a lower cost per watt, but occupy a larger footprint, compared to the polycrystalline alternatives. Thin fi lm panels
are also expected to hold up better to high temperatures, suffering less degradation of peak power output.
“The reason we’re using two technologies is that this is a new type of installation for the region and we wanted to see how both would hold up under our unique conditions,” said Khoreibi. “We went with proven best-of-breed technologies to make sure we were using the best components available. We’re not testing anything new, just ensuring that
what we had in there was exciting.”
Among the unique conditions referred to is the fi ne dust that will constantly cover the panels and the extreme temperatures to which they will be
exposed. Cleaning is a large component of the operations and maintenance schedule, but Khoreibi points out that this is relatively minimal compared to other technologies. The panels are installed at a fi xed tilt, so there are no moving components, further reducing maintenance requirements.
“There are numerous factors you have to put in place when trying to design the most effi cient system for the geography and for the footprint,” said Khoreibi. “From a cost per-kilowatt-peak perspective, we’ve designed one of most effi cient systems on the planet to date.”
So, despite the challenges of the environ-ment, the output of the panels is expected to provide some of the best results available.
“Compared to a panel, say in Germany, which has the largest installed capacity in the world, a panel here produces about twice as much energy, just based on how much sun we get,” said Khoreibi. “As long as you keep it clean, it’s very straight forward.”
In order to do just that as effi ciently as possible Enviromena is inviting cleaning companies to take on a portion of the solar plant and trial their particular technologies. This will let it measure results – through the real-time monitored power output of individual panels – and determine the most effective and sustainable cleaning method. This is an essential part of solar develop-ment in the region and determining the right cleaning method early on will expe-dite a wider roll out both in Abu Dhabi and elsewhere.
INTEGRATIONTaking on the role of a technology integrator meant being able to make the most of the technologies available on the market. Doing this meant having an experienced design team.
“We were able to hire some very talented individuals, with dozens of years of experi-ence, to head up our design and engineering team,” said Khoreibi. “We’re also building a staff of bright young engineers who are becoming solar designers.
THE GRIDCONNECTIONENVIROMENA’S STARTED FEEDING POWER TO MASDAR CITY IN 2009. ITS CONNECTION TO THE MAIN GRID MADE IT A FIRST FOR THE REGION
SAMI KHOREIBI, PRESIDENT & CEO OF ENVIROMENA POWER SYSTEMS.
“FROM A COST PER-KILOWATT-PEAK
PERSPECTIVE, WE’VE DESIGNED ONE OF MOST
EFFICIENT SYSTEMS ON THE PLANET TO DATE”
41FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
“One of our goals, to fi t with Masdar’s sustainability mandate, is to foster local growth and use as many locally sourced proj-ects as possible. For instance, we designed our racking locally and used a local fabri-cation company.
“We’re trying to keep the knowledge here. Our long-term success is based on the long-term success of developing the industry in the region and growing the Abu Dhabi-based solar economy.”
Although Enviromena is a young com-pany, its team had a well-developed skill set, based on previous projects.
“Members of our team have built utility-scale installations using some of the same modules,” said Khoreibi. “They were able to use their experience, from previous plants.
“Both module manufacturers – Suntech and First Solar – needed to be comfort-able that we had the skills to install their products properly. We also had to meet very stringent sustainability criteria. This plant is an example that you can use sus-tainable practices and build on time and on budget.”
Plugging into the city’s municipal grid, using inverter technology from SMA in Germany, is a key element in the integra-tion equation, allowing the solar plant to ‘virtually store’ excess power production for use later.
“This is far more cost-effective than battery technology,” said Khoreibi. “It also reduces the challenge of getting people comfortable with the up front capital cost.”
Solar energy always raises uncomfort-able cost comparisons with conventional power sources. Improved supply of solar panel modules has helped to reduce costs, which had been kept artifi cially high by a supply shortfall, but Khoreibi believes that without subsidies or incentives in place, it is not a fair comparison.
“We do need to subsidise or have government support for the implementation of specifi c technologies, to get over the initial economic hump,” he said. “What a lot of countries have done successfully is promote solar through a rebate and incentive system.
“The most successful solar model is still Germany because it has the feed-in tariff,
where power is brought back by the utility at a higher price than conventional energy, bringing down the payback period for the implementation of solar power systems. We hope to see the same thing put in place throughout the region.”
Although the company has worked as the EPC contractor on the project, Khoreibi doesn’t rule out expanding the company’s remit in the future.
“A lot of our strategic investors are compa-nies that also fi nance solar development, so what we can foresee is Enviromena taking ownership of some of these projects and selling power to the end user,” he said.
Khoreibi is aware of the signifi cant and growing interest in solar energy in the region. He also knows that the opportunity to get fi rst hand operational knowledge of what it takes to run a plant here, puts Environmena in a prime position to exploit that interest.
“Our goal is to further develop the regional industry in line with the Masdar Initia-tive. Then we can start having home grown champions fi rst, regional competitors next, then international competitors.” �
87,777 SOLAR MODULES WERE INSTALLED OVER A 212,000 M2 SITE.
SUNTECH POWERSuntech Power is a global designer and supplier of solar and
photovoltaic panels. In late 2008, Suntech was selected to
provide 5MW of solar panels for the fi rst Masdar City power
plant, which has supplied clean energy to the Abu Dhabi grid
since 2009.
“As the carbon-neutral Masdar City continues to grow
and develop, photovoltaic panels will serve a prominent role
generating clean electricity on rooftops and building facades,”
says Suntech Middle East director Nader Jandaghi.
“We are excited about many of the environmentally-conscious
and sustainable building practices on display throughout the
city, and we are extremely proud to contribute.”
The company’s goal is to make solar technology more
affordable, fl exible and attractive so that architects and
construction professionals have the tools they need to create a
sustainable building.
Other projects using Suntech systems throughout the Middle
East include the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi – a 292KW
solar array (a collection of solar modules) serves as a canopy
for the carport structure surrounding the racecourse’s VIP
viewing platform. In addition, a 750KW Suntech solar array was
built into the skin of the roof of Meydan’s grandstand in Dubai
and the company’s solar systems generate electricity for 19
remote schools in Lebanon.
43FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
MASDAR CITY WOULDN’T BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT A COMPREHENSIVE SUPPLY CHAIN, CAPABLE OF MAKING A LOW-CARBON CONTRIBUTION. CW LOOKS AT SOME OF THOSE SUPPLIERS WHO HAVE BEEN PROVING THEIR GREEN CREDENTIALS
PARTNERS MEAN PROGRESS
AL FALAH READY MIX
TROUVAY AND CAUVIN GULF
ARISTON THERMO GROUPAl Falah Ready Mix will supply 2 million m3 of
concrete, worth US $190.5 million (AED700
million), to the Masdar City project over a
period of four years. The concrete meets
Masdar’s green requirements, as recycled
aggregates and by-products are being used to
produce this material.
Al Falah’s aim is to minimise the waste
generated from operations within its batch
plant and to decrease harmful emissions
generated by equipment and vehicles at
the plant.
The latest product from the company is
ALFAcrete, which is made from crushed
aggregates, sand, water, cement, pozzolans,
and chemical admixtures. In addition,
granulated blast furnace slag (a by-product of
iron or steel making) and/or other pozzolanic
materials replace a portion of the cement, to
improve the durability of the product.
Trouvay and Cauvin Gulf (TC Gulf) has been
supplying cast, ductile, stainless and carbon
steel pipes, fi ttings, valves and accessories for
the past 30 years in the region. The company
also supplies plastic products for the UK-
based manufacturer Pipex, whose strap-
line has been ‘protecting the environment’
since 1975. “All of Pipex’s thermoplastic and
composite products are 100% recyclable
with Pipex operating a 0% waste to landfi ll
policy,” says TC Gulf building division
general manager Rajesh Jhurani. Pipex was
responsible for the specialist fabrication
and supply of corrosion resistant bio-secure
waste drainage products through TC Gulf
for the Masdar City project. In addition, the
company was responsible for providing the
necessary training and machinery to install
products on site, with product support
provided throughout. In total, Pipex supplied
approximately 300m of light weight bio-
secure polypropylene pipe and associated
fi ttings. These low maintenance materials
were pre-fabricated off site ready for site
installation. The company also supplied
the Masdar City project with stainless steel
fl oor gullies and jointing machinery. “Pipex
is currently developing the ‘Pipex Nimbus
Systems’ which are passive rainwater
collection systems that convey rainwater
directly into WC collection tanks. This allows
the harvested rainwater to be gravity fed
through the system without the need for large
below ground harvesting tanks or expensive
and energy ineffi cient pumps,” adds Jhurani.
Ariston Thermo Group offers
heating and water products, which
are designed to provide comfort
while consuming a minimal amount
of energy. In line with its green
initiatives, the company will offer
solar panels, storage tanks, back-up
gas boilers (if needed), expansion
vessels a control unit and all
components for the production of
sanitary water to the Masdar
City project.
“As producer of solar thermal
panels and systems, we see in
Masdar City a major opportunity
for supply the most advanced
technology for the production of
sanitary hot water at zero carbon
emission,” says Ariston marketing
manager for the Middle East
Emanuele Stano.
“We already are in contact with
Masdar City managers and we
expect more opportunities to come
during 2010.”
Ariston has supplied energy saving
solutions to projects around the
world, including a 7500 m2 solar
system for the Beijing Olympics.
AL FALAH AIMS TO MINIMIZE WASTE.
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201044
KIMMCOKIMMCO’s fi rm
commitment to
environmentally-friendly
building standards
and its low carbon
“footprint” were
recognized when the
company was selected
as an insulation supplier
and collaborator for Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, the world’s
fi rst green, zero-carbon city. The company was one of the fi rst
suppliers to approach Masdar because its concept is aligned
with KIMMCO’s long term strategy to promote green building
standards and maintain a low carbon footprint.
Initiated in 2006, Masdar City is estimated to cost US $22
billion and will take approximately eight years to complete.
The city, which covers 6 sq km, will become home for 40,000
residents and 1,500 businesses; it will require the use of clean
mass transit and personal rapid transit systems to transport
50,000 commuters. The initial development Phase 1 of
Masdar City has now started.
The company’s ongoing efforts to provide innovative,
eco-friendly and energy-effi cient insulation solutions
make it a natural partner for Masdar City. Mineral wool
is one of the most environmentally-friendly, stable and
sustainable insulation products available and its impact
on the environment during manufacturing, utilization and
disposal are minimal. In addition, glasswool contains up to
80% recycled glass and has excellent thermal and acoustic
insulation properties. It can be compressed up to 10 times
which reduces the need for transportation and storage.
KIMMCO has provided thermal and acoustical insulation
for the building of the Masdar Institute of Science and
Technology (MIST). It has supplied the project with 240
tons of insulation with less than 2% of waste generated and
is committed to further reducing the wastage by designing
customized solutions suitable to Masdar’s requirements.
This partnership is a benchmark for future green
building projects and establishes the insulation provider
as a leader in sustainable development. They hope to
continue the collaborative relationship with Masdar City
after construction is complete, through joint research and
development projects.
In addition to Masdar, KIMMCO is also working closely
with the Dubai Municipality to develop their new green
building code and with the Kuwait Institute of Scientifi c
Research to conduct a study aimed at upgrading the Kuwait
Building Code of Practise. Both projects will improve the way
buildings are insulated and thereby drastically reduce energy
consumption and CO2 emission.
Moving forward, KIMMCO is committed to continuing
its work on green building, energy-saving and eco-friendly
projects.
DOKA GROUPThe Doka Group is one of the biggest timber-processing enterprises in
Austria. For many decades now, Doka has actively lived out a responsible
approach to the use of timber, a resource which it sources primarily from
sustainable forestry, as a central ‘plank’ in its commitment towards the
ecological and social environment within which it operates.
Doka GmbH is certifi ed to the internationally recognised PEFC standards.
Rigorous compliance with all environmental regulations and continual
optimisation of its energy and resource consumption also take top priority
in all its production processes.
By having its range of timber formwork beams certifi ed to the globally
implemented PEFC standards (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest
Certifi cation schemes), the Doka Group has underlined its unreserved
commitment to sustainable forestry which pays equal regard to
environmental, economic and social criteria.
This PEFC accreditation guarantees complete traceability of the timber-
fl ow in the production process, verifying every single link in the ‘chain of
custody’, starting with the certifi ed forest stand and continuing via the timber
machining and processing entities all the way through to the fi nished product.
For Doka, certifi cation of its formwork-beam product line is only a
fi rst step along the way – in the medium term, Doka is aiming at PEFC
certifi cation for its line of formwork sheets as well. Even before this fi rst
certifi cation, the Doka Group was already sourcing its timber primarily from
certifi ed suppliers. Over 70% of our active suppliers of sawn timber already
have the relevant certifi cation, and in the case of our plywood suppliers, the
proportion of certifi ed companies is over 95%.
Doka formwork components and systems stand out for their extremely high
manufacturing quality. All production steps are rigorously geared to a single
overriding objective: manufacturing top-quality products that give customers
measurable added value and that have an above-average service life.
Faced with rising freight volumes, the Doka Group took a deliberate
decision to increase the share of its freight traffi c sent in containers on
goods trains and cargo vessels. This changeover has been refl ected in a
clearly recognisable structural shift in the distribution of annual freight
volumes between different modes of transport. In 2003, 9100 shipments
were sent by truck, and only 800 shipments in containers. Five years
later, there was already a marked shift towards rail and ship: by 2008, the
number of container shipments had climbed to over 4600, a growth rate
of around 480%.
DOKA SAYS ITS PRODUCTS ARE MANUFACTURED TO HAVE A LONGER THAN AVERAGE LIFESPAN.
MASDAR MIT BUILDING.
MAPEISAINT-GOBAIN GYPROCMapei is a supplier of adhesives, sealants and chemical products for buildings
and has been developing environmentally friendly products for some time
now. In fact, there are now over 150 products within the company’s range
that can contribute to LEED points and other environmental or green building
certifi cation systems.
“The products typically will have extremely low VOC’s (volatile organic
content) as we formulate many of our products for example without solvents,
which are not only harmful to the environment but also to the users and
installers of the product,” says IBS Mapei specifi cation consultant
Vincent Robinson.
“We also invest heavily in local production facilities and reduce the
transportation of our products via ships, thus reducing our carbon footprint.”
Due to the company’s green initiatives it has been able to supply many
of its products to the Masdar City development. Such products include
Kerapoxy – an acid-resistant epoxy grout for joints of at least 3mm; Mapetex
Sel – polypropylene reinforcing fabric, to reinforce and increase waterproof
membrane crack bridging; and Mapelastic – a modifi ed cementious based
waterproofi ng for protection of concrete.
“Mapei it able to bring almost 10 years ‘sustainable eco-friendly product’
and LEED related experience to Masdar,” adds Robinson. “We can offer the
benefi ts of signifi cant expertise in this sector with the provision of low VOC
products, which in addition to protecting both human and the environment,
also contributes signifi cantly towards cleaner indoor air quality.”
Saint-Gobain Gyproc Middle East provides system
solutions for lightweight internal partition systems.
These include Gyproc gypsum boards, Gypframe metal
framing and a range of accessories that contribute to
the performance requirements for sustainable living.
The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology is the fi rst
project to benefi t from Gyproc’s technical support and
advice and a range of Gyproc gypsum boards, Gypframe
metal components and ProTop jointing compound are
currently being installed.
“Gyproc’s involvement with Masdar city to date has not
only been the provision of high quality product systems
but more importantly in an advisory role,” says Gyproc
marketing manager Peter Robinson. “By proposing the
most effi cient way of achieving performance requirements,
such as fi re and acoustic measures, Gyproc will ensure
the environment is not only more comfortable, but a safer
environment for future users and inhabitants.”
Gyproc’s plasterboard is made from approximately 90%
recycled content and the company is also a local producer,
with a new manufacturing facility opening in Abu Dhabi in
April 2010, so the environmental impact from haulage and
transportation will minimised.
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201046
VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENTVolvo Construction Equipment is well known for its environmental
friendliness, low fuel consumption and working harder to reduce that
fuel consumption even further.
Volvo and Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Co. (FAMCO) understand
this responsibility and commitment to ensure that its products reduce
the effects of greenhouse gases. With the above vision in mind, Volvo
CE has introduced a system to help ensure greener operation of the
equipment: Care Track.
Care Track is used to monitor equipment and one could be forgiven
for describing it merely as a GPS system. On the surface that is what it
appears to be and such a description only helps to explain the system
in its very simplest form.
Yes, it uses satellites, and yes it allows the location of equipment
with exact accuracy. But Care Track is also a green fl eet
management system that allows the monitoring and management of
a fl eet from any computer with internet access. It provides real-time
information in easy-to-understand formats. Information will include
details of the equipment’s operational performance, including items
such as daily usage reports, service reminders, history and planning,
real-time fuel levels of individual machines, as well as remote
troubleshooting and diagnostics.
Care Track can help identify the need for operator training, before
any failure. It also helps manage work, allowing operations to
produce more by slowing down and working smarter. Easing up on
the accelerator reduces operator stress and can result in increased
operator effi ciency.
Proper operation results in lower fuel consumption and hence lower
emissions (COx and NOx). Fuel consumption involves big numbers
but it is a simple arithmetic. If you use 5 000 litres of fuel per day and if
you save 10%, this reduces C02 emissions by half a ton.
Remote diagnostic capability reduces diagnostic time by up to 30%
and will result in lesser visits by the mobile service vans to the site.
Fewer service vans on the roads will mean less vehicular pollution.
Service reminders and alarms allow for timely maintenance. Timely
maintenance further reduces emission levels. The replaced lubricants
and consumables are less hazardous when disposed of, or recycled.
VOLVO’S CARE TRACK CAN BE USED TO MONITOR THE PERFORMANCE OF VEHICLES,
DOWN TO THE FINEST DETAILS.
TECHNALTechnal is a supplier of aluminium building
envelopes, which aim to reduce the energy
consumption of a building. The company uses
a minimal amount of materials during the
manufacturing of these systems and provides
integrated insulation, which reduces the
power required to cool or heat a building. It
also offers photovoltaic panels, which convert
solar radiation into electricity.
“The aluminium systems are 100%
recyclable but fi nal products also include
gaskets and accessories,” says Technal
general manager Jean-Marc Luvisutto.
Currently, the company is supplying its
systems to the Masdar HQ project.
Exova Open UKAS Accredited Laboratory in Saudi ArabiaExova (Saudi Arabia) Ltd has invested in excess of SR 25m to open their new flagship testing facility in Saudi Arabia.
The brand new multidisciplined laboratory extends to nearly 4000 sq meters and is capable of providing an extensive range of testing and analytical services including:- Environmental testing and monitoring Analytical chemistry Metallurgical testing and analysis Microbiology testing services Civil Engineering testing
The laboratory will play a key role in the expansion of Exova’s services throughout Saudi Arabia. The new Saudi facility is the latest addition to the Exova global network which already extends to over 130 locations in 25 different countries.
The United Kingdom Accreditation Service assessed the laboratory in August 2009 stating “The new Saudi facility is of the highest possible standard” and formally granted ISO/ IEC 17025 accreditation in September 2009.
The Exova Saudi business is also formally registered by Saudi Aramco. T: +966 (0) 3 812 7750F: +966 (0) 3 812 1837
E: [email protected] [email protected]
W: www.exova.com
49FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
CONSTRUCTION WEEK REVIEWS SOME OF THE FIRMS WORKING ALONGSIDE MASDAR IN THE PURSUIT OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE CLEAN ENERGY INDUSTRY
MASDAR PARTNERSHIPS
GE ENERGY
FIRST SOLAR
At the beginning of 2009, GE announced that it had become an anchor
partner in the Masdar City project. The two companies released plans
to house a new Ecomagination Centre in the city, as part of GE’s
wider collaboration with Abu Dhabi investment and development
giant Mubadala. At around 4,000 m2 in size, the centre will showcase
GE clean tech products and should provide a location where both
fi rms can explore areas of collaboration with regard to research and
development.
One of the most recent fruits of the partnership saw Masdar sign
a link-up deal with GE Consumer & Industrial that has launched a
pilot programme to investigate the reduction of peak power demand
through the use of smart home appliances.
Masdar awarded a contract to US fi rm First Solar to supply 5MW of
its thin fi lm solar modules to be a part of the longest grid-connected
PV network in the Middle East, supplying power to the Masdar City
development and the Abu Dhabi grid.
“First Solar is changing the way the world is powered by creating
truly sustainable solar energy solutions,” said Jos van der Hyden,
First Solar’s vice president for business development, EMEA. “First
Solar manufactures solar modules with an advanced semiconductor
technology and provides comprehensive PV system solutions. By
constantly decreasing manufacturing costs, First Solar is creating
an affordable and environmentally responsible alternative to fossil-
fuel generation. First Solar set the benchmark for environmentally
responsible product life cycle management by introducing the
industry’s fi rst prefunded, comprehensive collection and recycling
programme for solar modules.”
TORRESOL
E.ON
Formed by a partnership between Spanish engineering
and consultancy fi rm Sener and Masdar in March 2008,
Torresol Energy is designed to promote the development
and exploitation of large and and cost-effi cient solar thermal
energy plants across southern Europe, North Africa, the
Middle East and the US south-west. Torresol’s portfolio of
Spanish projects includes Gemasolar – a 17MW plant based
on central tower technology – and Valle 1 and 2, two parabolic
trough 50MW plants.
In the Middle East, Torresol is building a tower power plant in
Abu Dhabi, and hopes to build another three CSP plants before
2012. In the US, the fi rm is planning to establish an agreement
with a renewable energy company to start the design of at least
one CSP plant in the south-east of the country.
As part of its investment into overseas technology, Masdar
announced in May that it was teaming up with E.ON and
Chinese fi rm DONG Energy to invest US $3.3 billion in the
world’s largest wind farm. The money is being spent on the roll-
out of the 650MW fi rst phase of the London Array site, which is
in the Thames Estuary.
It is hoped that the project will supply enough power for around
750,000 homes – or a quarter of Greater London – and
displace around 1.9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.
Onshore work on the project has already begun, with offshore
work expected to start in early 2011. The consortium hopes that
the 175-turbine fi rst phase will be completed in 2012, with later
capacity due to exceed 1,000MW.
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said: “The London Array is
a fl agship project in our drive to cut emissions by 80% by 2050
and meet future energy needs. E.ON, DONG Energy and Masdar
are to be congratulated for their work on the London Array.”
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201050
ENVIRONMENA
HYDROGEN ENERGY
FRAUNHOFER-GESELLSCHAFT
WINWIND
Abu Dhabi-based solar integrator
Environmena announced that
it had completed the 10MW
Masdar solar power plant, the
largest grid-connected solar
system in the Middle East and
North Africa region, in 2009.
The 55-acre project comprises
87,777 PV modules and can
produce 17,500 MWh of clean energy annually, offsetting around
1,500 tonnes of carbon dioxide every year. Worth US $50.4 million,
Environmena says the plant is one of the most cost-effective PV
installations in the world.
“We are delighted that the plant is performing as expected and that we
were able to deliver the installation on budget and on schedule,” said
Environmena vice president Sander Trestain. “This facility proves that
utility-scale grid-connected renewable energy projects are feasible in
Abu Dhabi and the wider region.”
Hydrogen Energy, itself a joint venture consisting of British
supermajor BP and Australian mining giant Rio Tinto, unveiled the
world’s largest carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) scheme in
January 2008. Abu Dhabi’s state-owned hydrocarbons company
ADNOC is also involved in a scheme that is designed to enhance oil
recovery from fi elds by injecting carbon dioxide into wells. The gas
would then be permanently stored underground.
But earlier this year, a representative from BP told local media that a
decision as to whether to go ahead with the US $2 billion project had
been postponed to the end of 2010. The delay means that it is unlikely
that the CCS development will be the fi rst to go into commercial
production, although it is still likely to be the world’s largest by the
time it comes online.
German applied research organisation Fraunhofer Gesellschaft inked
a partnership with Masdar in June 2009 to develop a Sustainable
Cities Research Centre to be based in the Abu Dhabi project.
The research centre will focus on critical technologies for sustainable
cities of the future including solar energy, energy-effi cient buildings,
water and desalination technologies, cooling technologies, intelligent
electricity supply concepts, electro-mobility and carbon footprint
measurement and evaluation,” said Masdar CEO Dr Sultan Al Jaber.
“The agreement also includes close collaboration with the Masdar
Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) and regional institutions
to undertake joint research programmes and achieve the transfer of
knowledge between the Gulf and Europe.”
In another substantial overseas investment, Masdar made its move
into the wind energy market in September last year via its interest in
Finnish wind turbine manufacturer WinWinD. Masdar has invested US
$178 million in the Helsinki-based company, which designs, develops
and assembles 1 and 3MW turbines. As a result of the partnership,
Masdar now holds three seats on the Finnish fi rm’s board and is
working to expand WinWinD’s geographic expansion in Europe, India
and the Middle East.
“For WinWinD, the investment is a testament to the high quality of
Finnish wind energy know-how and the increasing global demand
for renewable energy,” says Lassi Noponen, WinWinD’s executive
chairman. “The deal also provides us with a solid basis for developing
our company further.”
ADNOCMasdar and ADNOC are working together on a number of major
initiatives that are designed to reduce carbon emissions from
Abu Dhabi’s oil and gas facilities. As part of the partnership,
which was announced in January 2009, Masdar is identifying
and developing a portfolio of Clean Development Mechanism
(CDM) projects, as set out by the Kyoto Protocol. ADNOC has
fi ve CDM projects under way, with the capacity to reduce 4
million tonnes of CO2 emissions. “ADNOC’s partnership raises
the bar for oil fi rms looking to reduce their carbon footprint. We
are proud to work with Masdar so that the CDM can be used to
support our efforts to reduce environmental impact and ensure
a sustainable future for the industry,” said HE Yousef Omair Bin
Yousef, ADNOC’s chief executive offi cer.
SANDER TRESTAIN.
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DIRECTORY
FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK 53
SHOWCASE | TENDERS | PROJECTS | APPOINTMENTS | SUPPLIERS | CITY UPDATE
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SHOWCASE54 Ashrae HQ
57 TENDERS58 PROJECTS
59 APPOINTMENTS
SPECIALIST SERVICES60 Design software61 Construction manufacturers/steel
CITY UPDATE62 Dammam, Saudi Arabia
ABOVE: The ASHRAE headquarters in
Atlanta, Georgia in the US.
RIGHT: GA Power demonstrated how PV
arrays can be utilised to generate clean
power by taking advantage of under-
utilised space on the building’s roof. It
is estimated that the installed array will
provide more than 8% of the building’s
total annual energy cost as renewable
energy.
To b
uy
imag
es w
ith
in t
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e p
ages
ple
ase
emai
l itp
imag
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itp.
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visi
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CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201054
�SHOWCASEITP IMAGESTO BUY IMAGES WITHIN THESE PAGES PLEASE EMAIL [email protected] OR VISIT WWW.ITPIMAGES.COM
ASHRAE HEADQUARTERS, ATLANTA, GEORGIAThe ASHRAE HQ in the US was awarded a LEED Platinum rating recently. The award came after a
comprehensive refurbishment of an existing building. The decision to go through the refurbishment
process was fi rst taken in 2006, when the organisation’s board of directors decided that their HQ
needed to serve as a showcase of sustainability, as well as proof that sustainability can be
achieved through the use of upgrades and retrofi tting.
RIGHT: Refrigerants were selected that
minimise the emission of compounds
that contribute to ozone depletion and
global warming. In addition, a refrigerant
leak detection system from Thermal Gas
Systems is used to identify potential
system leaks early.
BELOW: The landscaping has been
updated and the need for landscaping
irrigation eliminated, to make for a more
water-effi cient design.
To b
uy im
ages with
in th
ese pages p
lease email itp
images@
itp.com
or visit itp
images.co
m
55FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
True originals? Hansgrohe products. Our award-winning products are developed in-house and manufactured to the highest quality standards. Hansgrohe stands for more than a century of great ideas for bathrooms and kitchens and takes delight in everything to do with water.For more information visit our website at www.hansgrohe-mea.com
Experience the pleasure of water with Hansgrohe.
57FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
�TENDERSFREE TENDERS AND SERVICES IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRYTO INCLUDE YOUR TENDERS IN THIS SECTION EMAIL TENDER DETAILS TO [email protected]
BAHRAIN
Issuer: Electricity and Water AuthorityTender No: 379/2009/6000Description: New administrative building at Juffair – phase 2 (interior works and furnishing).Closes: March 10Fees: BD50Bond: BD5000Contact: www.tenderboard.gov.bh
EGYPT
Issuer: Egyptian Endowment AuthorityDescription: Two tenders for the construction of 90 residential buildings comprising 2160 housing units in Asswan City.Closes: March 3 and March 7Fees: EP17,000 and EP16,000Bond: EP1.24 million and EP1.2 millionContact: Egyptian Endowment Authority, 109 Tahrir Street, Dokki, Giza
KUWAIT
Issuer: Central Tenders CommitteeTender No: MEW/73/2009/2010Description: Construction of fi ve storage facilities.Closes: March 7Fees: KD3000Contact: Central Tenders Committee, Ministry of Electricity and Water
Issuer: Central Tenders CommitteeTender No: MEW/39/2008/2009Description: Design and construction of Al Zour desalination plant, phase 2.Closes: March 9Fees: KD3000Contact: Central Tenders Committee, Ministry of Public Works
Issuer: Central Tenders CommitteeTender No: MEW/39/2008/2009Description: Design and construction of Al Zour desalination plant, phase 2.Closes: March 9Fees: KD3000Contact: Central Tenders Committee, Ministry of Electricity and Water
Issuer: Central Tenders CommitteeTender No: RA\\140Description: Construction of Jaber Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah Bridge in Kuwait.Closes: June 8Fees: KD5000Contact: Central Tenders Committee – Ministry of Public Works
Issuer: Central Tenders CommitteeTender No: MEW/54/2009/2010Description: Construction of a water plant in East Amgarh.Closes: March 9Fees: KD500Contact: Central Tenders Committee – Ministry of Water and Electricity
OMAN
Issuer: Ministry of Foreign AffairsTender No: 4/2010Description: Construction of an offi ce building for the Gulf Consulting Commission.Closes: March 1Fees: OR1100Contact: www.tenderboard.gov.om
Issuer: Ministry of HealthTender No: 16/2010Description: Supplying and installation of 11 air-cooled chillers at the Royal Hospital.Closes: March 1Fees: OR450Contact: www.tenderboard.gov.om
Issuer: Supreme Committee for Town PlanningTender No: 10/2009Description: Consultancy services for the preparation of the master-plan of Duqm Town.Closes: March 8Fees: OR300Contact: www.tenderboard.gov.om
QATAR
Issuer: Public Works AuthorityTender No: PWA/GTC/068/09-10Description: Construction of seven new schools in Doha.
Closes: March 2Fees: QR1000Contact: Contract department, Public Works Authority
SAUDI ARABIA
Issuer: Royal Commission for Jubail and YanbuTender No: PIC A-1003BDescription: Procurement and construction of waterfront infrastructure including roads, parking, walkways, pedestrian bridges, a storm water drainage system and an irrigation system.Closes: February 28Contact: Director, Purchasing and Warehousing Department, PO Box 30031, Yanbu Industrial City
Issuer: Ministry of Water and ElectricityTender No: 764/1431/1430Description: Construction of a customer service building in Ashyab.Closes: March 13Fees: SR1000Contact: http://app.mowe.gov.sa
UAE
Issuer: Federal Electricity and Water AuthorityTender No: E01/2010Description: Supply and erection of 33KV double circuit overhead line and cabling works in the northern emirates.Closes: March 17Fees: AED3000Contact: www.fewa.gov.ae
The Ministry of Transport for Saudi Arabia is responsible for planning, designing and constructing road networks to link cities and villages around the Kingdom. It is also in charge of boosting traffi c safety through application of international standards. The organisation’s key objectives for the future of the transport sector include enhancing socio-economic development, meeting safety requirements, providing a transport system capable of meeting the requirements of national security and defense and creating a multi-modal transport system to serve pilgrims. The ministry is currently fl oating several tenders with bidding deadlines coming up with the next couple of weeks. Contracts cover the construction of roads around the Gulf state, as well as the implementation of street lighting and the construction of a Ministry of Transport branch in Yanbu. �
Tender focus
MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT – SAUDI ARABIA
THE SAUDI MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT WILL BE RELEASING TENDERS SHORTLY.
> For more tenders check online at www.ConstructionWEEKonline.com/tenders
ONE TO WATCHIssuer:Issuer: SCADIASCADIADescription:Description: Construction of Abu Dhabi’s Construction of Abu Dhabi’s International Airport’s midfi eld terminal building.International Airport’s midfi eld terminal building.Closes:Closes: UnknownUnknownContact:Contact: www.scadia.comwww.scadia.com
� TEN
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�PROJECTSA SAUDI ARABIA DATABASE - BUILDING PROJECTS FOCUSTO LIST YOUR PROJECTS IN THIS COLUMN EMAIL DETAILS TO [email protected]
To li
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in t
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PRO
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> For the latest projects information visit www.ConstructionWEEKonline.com/projects
Construction is currently underway to convert the Al Qurayyah simple-cycle power plant into a combined-cycle power plant by the fi rst quarter of 2015. Five steam turbines will be added to the facility, with a total capacity to produce 1000MW of electricity per annum. The conversion will then bring the plant’s total capacity to 3000MW per annum.
Arabian Bemco and Doosan Heavy Indus-tries and Construction were awarded the main construction contract and work began on October 20, 2009. Combined-cycle plants generate more electricity from the same amount of gas used in simple-cycle plants, making it more effi cient. Saudi Electricity Company is the client on the US $1.8 billion (SR6.75 billion) project. � AL QURAYYAH GOES COMBINED.
PROJECT TITLE CLIENT CONSULTANT MAINCONTRACTOR
VALUE(US$MN)
STATUS
SAUDI ARABIAKAYAN PETROCHEMICALS COMPLEX AT JUBAIL - EP CRACKER PACKAGE
Sabic/Saudi Kayan Petrochemi-cal Company
Fluor Arabia Kellogg Brown & Root 1,200 project under construction
CEMENT PLANT EXPANSION IN TIHAMA Southern Province Cement Company (SPCC)
Sinoma International 147 project under construction
CHEMICAL PLANT IN RABIGH Sika Saudi Arabia Not Appointed Modern Construction Company 15 project under construction
TANTALUM AND NIOBIUM DEPOSITS AT GHURAYYAH AREA
Tertiary Middle East St Barbara Consulting/SRK Consulting
Not Appointed 100 project under study
KAYAN PETROCHEMICALS COMPLEX AT JUBAIL - POLYCARBONATE PACKAGE
Sabic/Saudi Kayan Petrochemi-cal Company
Asahi Kasei Daelim Industrial Company 500 project under construction
KAYAN PETROCHEMICALS COMPLEX AT JUBAIL - EO/EG PACKAGE
Sabic/Saudi Kayan Petrochemi-cal Company
Fluor Arabia China Technical Consultants Incorporate
500 project under construction
KAYAN PETROCHEMICALS COMPLEX AT JUBAIL - PP PACKAGE
Sabic/Saudi Kayan Petrochemi-cal Company
Fluor Arabia Samsung Saudi Arabia Ltd. 400 project under construction
RAS TANURA PETROCHEMICALS COMPLEX Saudi Aramco/Dow Chemical Company
Kellogg Brown & Root Not Appointed 17,000 project under design
AL-ZABIRAH BAUXITE DEVELOPMENT Maaden/Alcoa Bechtel Not Appointed 2,000 project under design
SYNTHETIC RUBBER PLANT AT KEMYA Sabic / ExxonMobil Chemical Fluor Arabia Not Appointed 31 - 100 bidding underway for the main contract
HIGH-TECH COATING FACILITY IN DAMMAM BLDGTEC/Nukote Coating Systems
Building Technology Trading & Contracting
10 project under construction
CAUSTIC CHLORINE/ETHYLENE DICHLORIDE FACTORY IN JUBAIL
Arabian Chlor Vinyl Company CMAI Consulting Company Daelim Industrial Company 400 project under construction
KAYAN PETROCHEMICALS COMPLEX AT JUBAIL - 2 DOUBLE - WALL TANKS PACKAGE
Sabic/Saudi Kayan Petrochemi-cal Company
Fluor Corporation Chicago Bridge & Iron/Dayim Punj Lloyd
40 project under construction
AL BAYRONI- AMMONIA PLANT UPGRADE Al Jubail Fertilizer Company Kellogg Brown & Root 50 project under construction
SYNTHETIC RUBBER PLANT AT YANPET Sabic / ExxonMobil Chemical Fluor Arabia Not Appointed 150 award awaited for the construction contract
JUBAIL-2 EXPORT REFINERY - COKER UNIT PACKAGE Saudi Aramco / Total Foster Wheeler Samsung/Chiyoda 850 project under construction
Project focus
AL QURAYYAH COMBINED-CYCLE POWER PLANT
59FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
�APPOINTMENTSCONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS AND SERVICES MADE EASY IN CONSTRUCTION WEEK’S DIRECTORYTO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL +971 4 435 6344, OR EMAIL [email protected]
� A
PPOIN
TMEN
TS To ad
vertise please call +
971 4
43
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or em
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ir.desai@
itp.com
COWI-Larsen Joint Venture (C-L JV), are the Engineering and Architectural Design Consultants for the Development of Muscat and Salalah International Airport Projects in the Sultanate of Oman and will be performing as the ‘Engineer’s Representative’ during the post contract stage. We are looking for highly experienced and competent people to add value to the team. If you are willing & able to rise to the challenges of building a national landmark to the Sultanate of Oman. Apply here:www.cowi.com/jobs --> Point & Click on Gulf Jobs
All staff must have 100% respect for Health Safety and Environment.Expatriate Package as per norm.
COWI-LarsonCOWI-Larson Joint VentureJoint Venture
We are seeking one Senior Contracts Administrator to join the Salalah Airport project:- Extensive experience managing a team of QS & Contract
Administrators is essential (10+yrs min)- Extensive experience administering the entire suite of airport packages
is essential (7+yrs min)- Extensive experience administrating FIDIC contract on airport
infrastructure projects essential. Working knowledge of the ‘Yellow Book’ is essential.
- Possess an excellent knowledge of contract administration, project management and procurement through a Design & Build Procurement Strategy
- Must hold attested university degree /diploma in QS/Civil Eng. from a reputable institution.
- Extremely competent communicator on contractual correspondence is essential
- Extensive experience holding & chairing stakeholder meetings.- MRICS desirable- Valid driving license & quali� ed education degree are essential.
We are seeking one Resident Engineer to lead the site supervision team for the upcoming Salalah project and one Resident Engineer for Mucat.
- 10+ years experience working on airport infrastructure - 5 years Middle East experience is essential- Leadership of a team of professional engineers & inspectors.- Guardian of safe working practices and welfare standards.- Managing the � ow of information in accordance with the Contract
(FIDIC Yellow Book)- Representing the Engineer and maintaining the highest level
of professionalism.- Facilitate the Contractor’s role in completing the project to the
standards de� ned on the speci� cation and in a manner that delights the Employer.
- Represent the SRE at meetings and through correspondence.- Analysis of submissions using experience of safety, constructability
and technical matters.- Ensure due diligence is employed during the reviews of
Contractor’s submittals.- Record all issues, communications and occurrences such that at later
date, sequences of events can be reconstructed. - Report in an accurate, concise and timely manner.- Must be degree quali� ed & chartered desirable.
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201060
�SPECIALIST SERVICESCONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS AND SERVICES MADE EASY IN CONSTRUCTION WEEK’S DIRECTORYTO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL +971 4 435 6344, OR EMAIL [email protected]
To a
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ll +
971
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SP
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Established in 1977, Zamil Steel specialises in the design, manufacture and supply of Pre-Engineered Buildings. Over the years, it has grown from a local single-division company into a leader in the fi eld of steel fabrication in Asia, Africa and Europe. The company’s activity has also expanded to include design, manufacture and supply of conventional steel structures and process equipment, transmission and telecommunication towers.
In addition, Zamil Steel runs a joint venture with Steel Plus, a subsidiary of Canam Group, Canada, to design and fabricate open web steel joists and fl oor decks. Zamil Steel manufactures a total 500,000 tonnes of fabricated steel per year for high-rise and low-rise buildings, as well as infrastructure projects. The company’s products are sold in more than 85 countries and its main factories are based in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
Additional factories are located in Egypt, Vietnam, UAE and India. More than 600 engineers are employed in the company’s engineering departments.
Of the total projects awarded to the company, the larg-est were the Yarmook Shopping Mall in Riyadh; aircraft sheds at Jeddah and Riyadh; the EPS Electronic Factory at Jordan; the Mall of Africa shopping complex in Cairo, Egypt; a Pre-Cast Concrete Factory in Massafah, Abu Dhabi; and a Fiberglass Plant in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.
Supplier focus
ZAMIL STEELMANUFACTURER OF STEEL
ZAMIL MANUFACTURES 500,000 TONNES OF STEEL PER YEAR.
The remaining large projects were of global origin being from Qatar, Bahrain, Venezuela and Pakistan in addition to those in Saudi Arabia. �
61FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 2010 CONSTRUCTION WEEK
� SPECIA
LIST SERV
ICES To
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lease call +9
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ail shish
ir.desai@
itp.com
BUILDING MATERIALS HARD LANDSCAPING SUPPLIER
> For directory information visit www.ConstructionWEEKonline.com/directory
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CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201062
in boosting trade across the whole of Saudi Arabia.
The $10 billion development, which will be the fi rst rail link between the Red Sea and the Gulf, includes a railway station at the Jeddah Islamic Port and another in the city that would also serve as a junction linking King Abdullah Aziz International Airport with the Makkah-Madinah line and the Dammam line.
The line will also be connected with Yanbu and Jubail. The project involves the con-struction of 950km of new railway tracks between Riyadh and Jeddah, and another 115km line between Dammam and Jubail – one of the most important projects – accord-ing Jones Lang LaSalle research manager Fayyaz Ahmad.
In terms of powering Dammam, several projects are already underway including the construction of a 13.8/69KV substa-tion in the city’s industrial city. Cogelec Alsthom Company was awarded the main
CITY UPDATEDAMMAM, SAUDI ARABIA
“WITH A TOTAL SPEND OF SR11.87 BILLION (US $3.17
BILLION), WHICH INCLUDES SURPLUS FROM THE PAST
YEARS, 316 ROAD PROJECTS HAVE BEEN APPROVED”
THE LANDBRIDGE WILL BOOST TRADE IN KSA.
The completion of Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport has created an important gateway to the city. Thanks to its vast size – it is after
all bigger than the island of Bahrain – the hub has opened up an area for international construction bodies and their plant to come and operate in the capital of Saudi Arabia’s eastern province.
Heading out of the airport however, con-tractors, developers and engineers may fi nd they have their work cut out for them as the infrastructure in the city leaves a lot to be desired.
As concepts move into reality though, patchy roads are set to be a thing of the past.
Last month, it was announced that Sau-di Arabia will construct 6400km of new roads with this year’s budget allocation. And, part of these funds will be spent on the fi rst phase of the double lane road linking Riyadh-Dammam expressway with the Abu Hadriah-Dammam road and Dammam-Jubail road, as well as the linking of the King Fahd Airport road with the Abqaiq-Dhahran road.
“With a total spend of SR11.87 billion (US $3.17 billion), which includes surplus from the past years, 316 road projects have been approved,” said transport minister Jebara Al-Seraisry.
“The approval also includes the comple-tion of the projects that were launched in the past years.”
But, the largest project set to be built in Dammam is the Saudi Landbridge proj-ect, which is expected to play a vital role
Smoothing things overCW DISCOVERS HOW DAMMAM IS IMPROVING
ITS CURRENT INFRASTRUCTURE AND HOUSING SITUATION
By Sarah Blackman
Smoothing things overCW DISCOVERS HOW DAMMAM IS IMPROVING
ITS CURRENT INFRASTRUCTURE AND HOUSING SITUATION
By Sarah Blackman
construction contract in July 2009 and the $17 million project is expected to be com-pleted in January 2012.
In addition, South Korean contractor Doo-san Heavy Industries and Construction, and its Saudi partner Bemco has signed a $1 billion deal with the Saudi Electricity Company to construct a 1330MW power plant near Damman.
The contract will see the company provide steam turbines and heat recovery steam generators, amongst other major elements, for the Qurayyah Combined Cycle Ther-mal Power Plant which is scheduled for completion in 2013.
Meanwhile, as those people passing through Dammam’s airport are adding to the already increasing population, there is a huge demand for housing in the city.
In light of this, a master-planned com-munity will be built between Dammam and neighbouring Khobar.
Riyadh-based developer Injaz Devel-opment announced in October that its Al Marina project had now received formal approval, and began sourcing investors and sub-developers at Cityscape Dubai.
“We are talking to institutional, as well as individual investors and potential partners who would be interested in developing and constructing hospitals, schools, malls and as residential facilities,” says Injaz managing director Omar Abdullah Al Kadi.
Al Marina will be a masterplanned com-munity for 45,000 people on the Al-Kho-bar-Damman coastal corridor. Of the 3.3 million m² of land allocated to the project, 41.4% will be for residential and commercial purposes, 42.2% for public spaces and over 16% for government services. �
CONSTRUCTION WEEK FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 5, 201064
DIALOGUEBLAIR HAGKULL
Do you think that there is currently an over supply of houses in some parts of the Middle East?There is a selective over supply. There are certain markets like Saudi Arabia and Egypt where there continues to be a lot of domestic demand. In the UAE, we see areas of selective stability, but we also see greater supply in some areas that are yet to materialise.
In Saudi Arabia, there is an under supply of affordable housing. Will this situation improve this year?Sure. The thing about real estate is that it is essential to developing the economy. The supply of new homes leads to a need for places to work and shop. So, central to the growth plans of Saudi Arabia is housing, just as it is in Egypt. We know that there a lot of programmes in place and some funding to help develop new homes, but the issue of additional housing is also focused on making it more affordable. The reason for the demand for housing in these countries is simply down to population growth. As a result, you fi nd that there is a necessity to be able to create real homes for real people.
Is there still a demand for hotels and commercial outlets?There are certainly opportunities to develop retail outlets in Abu Dhabi, particularly in areas where there is existing population. In terms of hotels, the best designs and the hotels in the best locations have performed the best and there is still a demand for these. The other market that is doing well is low budget accommodation for people who only want to spend a certain amount of money.
What should real estate developers in the UAE focus on this year?They should encourage demand because over the last three to four years there has been an increasing supply of homes. They have been built, but where are
Business prospectsBlair Hagkull, managing director for Jones Lang LaSalle in the Middle East and Africa, discusses the key trends for the real estate and construction industry in 2010 and how developers can shape a better future for themselves
By Sarah Blackman
the tenants to fi ll them? Further, it is important that investors have trust in the market place; a lack of transparency is a major issue in the UAE real estate industry. Other trends will relate specifi cally to how to refi nance and look at alternative ways of fi nancing projects. Finally, the market has grown tremendously over the past ten years, but it is now time for regulation and legislation to catch up.
How can developers gain back the trust of investors?Every situation has a different solution and the fi rst thing you have to do is communicate. Secondly, people have to acknowledge what is happening in the market place. At best the market is fl at and at worst it has gone down 30%. I don’t know anybody that is wealthier than they were a year ago, except people who have invested really well. So people have to recognise that this is a new paradigm that we are in and it is a lot more about reducing risk, increasing confi dence and doing things that are more logical.
Which Middle East country is demanding the most housing right now?We have just opened an offi ce in Cairo and we see that Saudi, Morocco and Egypt have the most domestic populations and therefore, the most demand for housing. In our minds, these
areas have the most promising future.
Which new reports will you publish this year?Like every year, we are putting together quarterly reports on the major cities of the Gulf. This year, we are publishing a report on the importance of valuations and this will come out in a few weeks. We are doing an Abu Dhabi report in April, a hotels report in May, a couple of investor reports in May and September and we have many more in the pipeline.
Blair has played a leading role in some of
the world’s largest and most successful
real estate ventures in North America,
Asia and the Middle East over the past
20 years. He is active in leading markets
throughout the region, working directly with
leading international and regional investors,
developers and government organizations.
He contributes directly to regional policy
forums and strategic government initiatives
and is a frequent regional commentator on
real estate and investment trends.
A-2046-1209
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