Mongolia has begun developing its renewable energy industry which would be considered as the priority of energy sector's development, Mongolian mineral and energy minister D.Zorigt said, writes Xinhua.

The minister made the remarks at the Mongolian Renewable energy 2012 international conference that concluded in Ulan Bator on Friday.

Over 100 specialists, company representatives, government and international organization officials participated the two-day conference and they put forward many advices and technology solutions for Mongolia's renewable energy development.

During the meeting, many specialists said energy and environment issues have become common concerns of international community, stressing developing new energy and renewable energy have become key measures to guarantee energy security and sustainable development for every country.

Bayanjargal Byambasaikhan, CEO of Mongolia's leading renewable energy company Newcom Group, told the conference Mongolia boasts abundant wind and solar power resources, but the development of renewable energy industry faces difficulties in technology and investment fields.

At present, Mongolia's electricity consumption grows between 8 to 10 percent annually and the wind power can provide substantial clean electricity for the country's rapid economic development.

Newcom Group and U.S. General Electric are jointly building the country's first wind farm - Salkhit Wind Farm - some 70 kilometers to the east of Ulan Bator. The USD100 million project aims to provide clean energy for Ulan Bator and alleviate the capital city's air pollution.

The 50-megawatt wind farm marks a new page in the renewable energy sector development of the country. Operations are due to commence in November 2012.

Source: Xinhua