An Atlas Copco QLT light tower illuminates a work site.

On-site generators, air compressors and light towers are a critical component of the works on any construction or industrial site, providing a lifeline of power and operational support to projects that ensures the lights stay on and pneumatic tools green to go.

In the Gulf’s harsh climate, the project demands in often remote location place the dependability of generators and air compressors at a premium — and the result is an arms race between the top OEMs to provide the most durable, efficient and easy-to-maintain products on the market.

Franklin Joseph, electrical project manager at Al Shafar General Contracting, told sister title Construction Week that demand for temporary power in the GCC expanded in 2015 off the back of large-scale construction projects under progress, and that he anticipates demand for portable power services to see steady growth this year.

He noted: “Due to the nature of these projects and the harsh weather conditions in the GCC region, reliability has become a key factor in the design and installation of portable power solutions. Reliable portable power ensures no man-hours are lost and better project progress.

As further trends, he added: “Improved efficiency, lower emissions, and lower running costs will be key features in the selection of portable power systems, and since most of the new projects are large-scale, synchronised generator sets have become increasingly popular compared to traditional systems. The general trend is towards solutions that are energy efficient and have low running costs.”