Siemens, the global powerhouse in electronics and electrical engineering operating in the energy, infrastructure, industry and healthcare sectors, has signed a franchise agreement with a Qatari firm for the manufacturing of low-voltage power distribution boards that supports the Gulf state's industrialization drive. The agreement between Siemens WLL, the Qatari unit of Siemens AG, and Qatar's Al Khayarin Switchgear will make the subsidiary of Al Khayarin Group the first in the country to manufacture Sivacon S8 boards. The boards are used to distribute and manage power supply to residential and commercial buildings, airports, as well as oil and gas, water, chemicals, and industry-metals sectors. The franchise agreement gives Al Khayarin Switchgear the authorization to manufacture the Sivacon 8 power boards locally, boosting manufacturing and industrial activity in one of the world's fastest growing economies. The low-voltage power distribution product has set new standards for boards used in industrial applications and infrastructure. Sivacon S8 is ideal for simple and consistent distribution of power, offering maximum personal and system safety while saving costs and reducing risks. Bernhard Fonseka, CEO, Siemens Qatar, said: "Building up local resources and competencies is essential when pursuing the creation of a more sustainable economy, which is what Qatar is in the process of doing as part of its National Vision 2030. To have a local manufacturer for the Sivacon switchgear assembly is a significant step towards the ongoing transformation of the country." As part of the franchise, Siemens will provide legal manufacturing authorization, software design, guidelines, methods and training to Al Khayrin for the successful manufacturing of the boards. Al Khayarin Switchgear is a multi-discipline Qatari organization and has been a partner of Siemens for the past three years as an "Authorized Panel Builder", which means the company has its own design of metalwork and includes Siemens components to provide low-voltage switchboards for the Qatari market. Mr Mohammad Idrees Anwar, CEO of Al Khayarin Group said: "The low-voltage boards offer great flexibility and efficiency in power distribution, whether it is to homes, commercial buildings, or industrial plants. We are excited and proud to be the first and only manufacturer of Sivacon S8 in Qatar." The franchising agreement clearly demonstrates commitment from Al Khayarin Group and Siemens WLL to invest into the sustainability that industrial manufacturing will bring to Qatar's economy, which is forecast to grow 6% in 2012. It will also help meet the increasing demand for systems made in Qatar, as the country moves ahead with a massive infrastructure upgrade program driven by preparations for the 2022 World Cup. The country plans to invest an estimated $150bn across the economy in the next five years, including in energy-efficient and sustainable projects and green technologies and solutions. Ameinfo
