There is an urgent need to address the issue of energy conservation at the governmental level as the demand for power is much steeper than the supply, says Saudi Lighting Company, a premier Riyadh-based lighting products manufacturer.

"There is a possibility to save at least 50 per cent energy on lighting without decreasing any levels or quality - not to mention the fact that air-conditioning loads would come down approximately 25 per cent if appropriate steps are taken," says Saudi Lighting product manager Kresimir Andelic.

"There are strong influences of the US in Saudi Arabia's lighting market, which in many cases is a disadvantage since the American lighting technology is not as advanced as many other markets in the world," Andelic claims.

Saudi Lighting Company, established as a joint venture with Asea (ABB) in 1978, is a leading manufacturer in the Middle East and is claimed to be Saudi Arabia's largest lighting supplier. It has a 20,000 sq m purpose-built production facility in Riyadh's Second Industrial City and employs a staff of 600.

It has a licensed production capacity of 2.6 million light fittings annually.

Saudi Lighting's technical strength is based on the application of the latest and most modern technologies, says Andelic. "Using Autocad in design and development of products, numerical controlled machines for metal forming and electrostatic powder painting for surface treatment, we ensure not only a high product quality, but also an environmentally-friendly production, free from emissions to air and water," he continues.

The company boasts a lighting laboratory which is said to be the only one of its kind in the Kingdom. The laboratory conducts tests and research.

The company's lighting design and application centre is supported by high-tech software.

Saudi Lighting's product range spans all types of professional lighting such as commercial, industrial, hospital, hazardous, emergency, decorative, amenity, street and flood lighting.

The current output is 90 per cent of capacity, which is a slight increase from last year. Its turnover has been stable over the past years at around $55 million, says Andelic.

"Our main suppliers of raw material and components are located in Europe and the US, but we use local suppliers if they are competitive in price and quality in order to support the local economy," he says.

The company conforms to Saudi Arabian Standards Organisation Standards (Saso) standards and all the test procedures are according to IEC. The company is also ISO 9001 certified.

Saudi Lighting sells 90 per cent of the output in the local market. The exports, mainly to other GCC countries, have remained stable during the past years.

The company has expansion plans on the anvil. "A number of products have been introduced recently and further product launches are to be expected shortly," says Andelic.

Saudi Lighting has carried out numerous projects, he says. Some of the most recent projects include Mina Tent City and Mina Slaughterhouse in Makkah; the NCCI Building, the Kingdom Schools, the Kingdom Hospital and the Al Faisaliah Tower, all in Riyadh.

Andelic says prospects for 2000-2001 look bright, especially since several governmental projects are on the move again.

"With a large product range meeting all needs for indoor and outdoor applications, we offer total solutions considering energy conservation and cost-effective installations and operations," he adds. "We are ready to meet the challenges of the future with a wealth of experience and a reputation based upon high quality, progressive and comprehensive product range, matched by pre and after-sales service, ensuring high customer confidence in both products and company."