Latest news with #NationalEnergyStrategy
Ammon
09-07-2025
- Business
- Ammon
Cabinet addresses municipal governance, economic stimulus, and key services
Ammon News - The Cabinet on Wednesday discussed a range of key issues, including municipal governance, economic stimulus measures, and essential health and water services. The meeting follows the dissolution of municipal and provincial councils last Sunday, part of a broader political modernization drive. The Cabinet focused on ensuring the effective performance of municipalities across the Kingdom. Minister of Local Administration Walid Al-Masri briefed the Cabinet on the work of newly formed temporary committees, outlining their mandates and future monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. The Cabinet emphasized that these temporary committees must operate in full coordination with relevant bodies to improve municipal services, enhance governance, develop infrastructure, automate services, and complete citizen-centric projects. Continuous evaluation of the committees' work and service quality will be maintained. Discussions also covered next steps to advance legislative reforms governing local administration, aligning with the government's commitment to modernize these laws and streamline municipal operations. Prime Minister Jafar Hassan called for intensified national dialogues on legislative development, ensuring broad participation to achieve high-quality legislation for municipal and provincial councils. These discussions began in early June, focusing on recommendations from the Royal Committee to Modernize the Political System regarding local administration, and are set to continue. To bolster the tourism sector and stimulate economic activity, the Cabinet approved a three-year extension of the special tax exemption on airline tickets for flights departing from King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba. This measure aims to attract more airlines and tourists to Jordan, particularly Aqaba, by reducing flight costs, thereby boosting the tourism sector's contribution to the national economy. In the energy sector, the Cabinet approved the rationale for a draft bylaw governing the establishment, licensing, operation, and maintenance of independent electricity transmission systems. It also covers procedures for establishing and connecting self-generation and storage stations to these systems. This move aligns with the new Public Electricity Law (No. 10 of 2025), published on May 15, 2025, and effective mid-August. The new system is designed to encourage investment and competition in green hydrogen and other economically vital energy projects, consistent with the National Energy Strategy and the Economic Modernization Vision. Furthermore, the Cabinet sanctioned the settlement of 672 outstanding cases between taxpayers and the Income and Sales Tax Department. This reflects the government's ongoing effort to alleviate burdens on economic activities, investors, and citizens, stimulate economic growth, and enhance the business environment. The Cabinet approved measures for transferring land ownership in the Ma'in area to the Jordan Investment Fund, paving the way for the construction of the new Madaba Hospital. This follows Prime Minister Hassan's announcement in March to build a new, advanced government hospital in Madaba, expected to cost an estimated 60 million dinars ($84.6 million), rising to 80 million dinars ($112.8 million) with full equipment. Construction is slated to begin this year and conclude within four years, marking the first such public-private partnership in the sector with KPW Investment and Infrastructure Company. Additionally, the Cabinet endorsed the Medical Committees System for 2025, which aims to regulate the work of medical committees, define their levels and specializations, and establish judicial committees in the northern, central, and southern regions of the Kingdom, not just the capital. These committees will handle disability percentages from traffic and other accidents, easing the burden on citizens. A central appellate judicial committee will also be established in the capital to review appeals against regional judicial committee decisions, ensuring fairness. To advance the National Water Carrier project, a strategic initiative within the Economic Modernization Vision, the Cabinet approved documents from the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) of the World Bank Group. These documents pertain to a guarantee contract and financial/legal instruments for investor companies Eurasia SAS Meridiam and SUEZ International SAS, facilitating the project's construction, operation, and maintenance. The project aims to provide 300 million cubic meters of potable water annually, increasing supplies to all governorates. In the realm of international cooperation, the Cabinet approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Jordanian Diplomatic Institute and the Kuwaiti Saud Nasser Al-Sabah Diplomatic Institute. The MoU establishes a framework for developing cooperative activities and offering joint diplomatic training programs, workshops, and executive certificates. This initiative seeks to enhance the expertise and skills of diplomats, provide them with support and guidance, and build knowledge in relevant fields, leveraging Jordan's leadership in diplomatic training.
Observer
17-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
Green hydrogen: Treasure to global energy markets
As the global pursuit of carbon neutrality accelerates, green hydrogen is quickly emerging as the cornerstone of a cleaner energy future and Oman is uniquely positioned to lead the charge. Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, the Sultanate of Oman is not simply embracing another alternative fuel; it is shaping its role as a pivotal player in the energy systems of tomorrow. With abundant solar radiation, expansive wind corridors, promising government policies, and world-class port infrastructure, Oman offers an unrivaled combination of natural and logistical assets. While others contend with sluggish bureaucracy, Oman has enacted agile policies and rolled out attractive incentives that are already drawing serious investment. This proactive approach provides the country with a vital head start. But the implications go far beyond economic gains. In an era when energy independence equates to geopolitical influence, green hydrogen presents Oman with a chance to move from energy supplier to strategic architect on the global stage. Globally, green hydrogen momentum is building at unprecedented speed. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that global electrolyser capacity could reach between 134 and 850 gigawatts by 2030, with up to 8 million tonnes of hydrogen produced annually. Germany has pledged €9 billion to establish 5 GW of domestic electrolyser capacity. Japan has earmarked $21 billion over 15 years in subsidies. Meanwhile, Australia's Western Renewable Energy Hub envisions up to 26 GW of combined solar and wind dedicated to green hydrogen and ammonia export. Saudi Arabia's $8.4 billion NEOM project plans to deliver 1.2 million tonnes of green ammonia annually by 2026 using 3.9 GW of renewable capacity. For Oman, this transition is not just about sustainability. It's a strategic leap one that can reshape the national economy and redefine the country's place in global energy geopolitics. With abundant solar radiation, expansive wind corridors, promising government policies, and world-class port infrastructure, Oman offers an unrivaled combination of natural and logistical assets. Oman, however, is not simply following this trend it is writing its own chapter. Under Vision 2040 and its National Energy Strategy, the country aims to generate 30% of its electricity from renewables by 2030. Established in 2022, Hydrogen Oman (Hydrom) oversees the licensing, policy frameworks, land auctions, and infrastructure required to scale up the hydrogen economy. By early 2024, Hydrom had signed six landmark agreements around the ports of Duqm and Salalah, partnering with major global firms such as BP, ACME, Uniper-DEME (Hyport Duqm), EDF-JPower-Yamna, ACTIS-Fortescue, Green Energy Oman, and Marubeni Samsung. These deals, which represent approximately 15 GW of planned renewable capacity, are expected to produce over 700,000 tonnes of green hydrogen and draw nearly $20 billion in investment. Time is of the essence. As countries advance toward 2050 net-zero commitments, Oman's natural endowment and control over key maritime routes position it to seize a narrowing window of opportunity. Green hydrogen's promise lies not only in its environmental credentials produced via renewable-powered electrolysis with zero emissions but in its remarkable versatility. Unlike grey hydrogen, which emits greenhouse gases, or blue hydrogen, which depends on still-unproven carbon capture technologies, green hydrogen has the unique ability to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors like steel manufacturing, aviation, maritime shipping, road transport, fertiliser production and large-scale renewable energy storage. Among the standout projects is Hyport Duqm, a collaboration between OQ, Uniper, and DEME Group, which will use 1.3 GW of solar and wind to operate a 500 MW electrolyser system, generating 60,000 tonnes of green hydrogen per year, convertible into 330,000 tonnes of green ammonia. Phase one is set for 2026. Meanwhile, ACME's Duqm based facility, a $3.5 billion project powered by 3 GW of solar and 500 MW of wind, aims to deliver up to 900,000 tonnes of green ammonia annually. In Salalah, consortia including EDF/JPower/Yamna and ACTIS-Fortescue plan to install 4–4.5 GW of renewable capacity to produce between 175,000 and 200,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually, with the goal of exporting one million tonnes of green ammonia. These initiatives are beginning to pay off. Oman is projected to claim 60% of the Middle East's green hydrogen exports by 2030, outpacing regional competitors like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Beyond decarbonisation, this shift offers economic resilience. As oil and gas gradually decline in global relevance, hydrogen promises to diversify Oman's GDP, stabilise state revenues, and create an estimated 70,000 high-skill jobs, including 17,000 leadership roles, by 2050. Oman's integrated strategy sets it apart. Unlike nations struggling with fragmented regulations or isolated infrastructure, Oman offers a coordinated, investor-ready ecosystem led by Hydrom and supported by free-trade zones in Duqm and Salalah. Its hydrogen program matches or surpasses benchmark initiatives like Saudi Arabia's NEOM or Australia's Pilbara region not just in capacity but in execution. Now entering its implementation phase, Oman's hydrogen vision is rapidly becoming reality. What began as policy ambition is evolving into structural transformation. Green hydrogen is reinvigorating industry, attracting global alliances, and enhancing Oman's international profile. Guided by Vision 2040 and powered by its renewable wealth, Oman is no longer just entering the hydrogen race; it is helping define it.
Biz Bahrain
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Biz Bahrain
Alzayani Investments Group's Euro Motors Signs Solar Partnership with Positive Zero
Euro Motors, the luxury automotive arm of the Alzayani Investments Group, has signed a renewable energy agreement with Positive Zero, the Middle East's largest provider of decarbonization services and on-site solar power solutions. The project in Sitra will entail the construction and development of a solar rooftop and carport, which upon completion is expected to have a capacity of 2.7MWp. This will generate 4.7 GWh of electricity per year, which is an equivalent amount of energy as the annual electricity used by 654 households. The 25-year agreement will result in major environmental benefits, including the annual reduction of more than 3,100 tons of greenhouse gases. For comparison, almost 52,000 trees would need to be planted and grown for 10 years to have a similar level of impact. Euro Motors Bahrain is the luxury car dealer for major car brands such as BMW, Rolls Royce, Ferrari, Maserati, Land Rover, Jaguar and MINI. Alzayani Investments Group has a wide portfolio of brands across different industries, underlining its position as one of the leading conglomerates in Bahrain. Positive Zero will handle end-to-end build, financing, operations and maintenance of the solar rooftop and carport, ensuring Euro Motors can fully benefit from the environmental and economic cost savings. Representatives present at the signing ceremony included Mohammed Abdulghaffar Hussain (Chairman, Positive Zero), David Auriau (CEO, Positive Zero), Laurent Longuet (CEO at Positive Zero's Distributed Generation business, SirajPower), Rashid Zayed Alzayani (Managing Director, Euro Motors), Richard Gough (GM, Euro Motors), Rashed Hamed Alzayani (Managing Director, Midal Solar), and Khalid (Chief Executive Officer, Midal Solar). Discussing the new agreement, Rashid Z. Alzayani, Euro Motors Managing Director said, 'We're proud to launch this major new sustainability project with Positive Zero, which sets a new benchmark for Bahrain's automotive sector. As the industry itself changes, we too must find novel and intelligent ways to give back to the environment. We fully support the government's National Energy Strategy, as we reduce emissions and head towards net-zero by 2060.' David Auriau, CEO Positive Zero said, 'We are excited to collaborate with Euro Motors in decarbonizing their facilities. Our onsite solar infrastructure solutions will reduce Euro Motor's operational costs and carbon footprint, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in the automotive Industry. With the support of Alzayani Investments, we look forward to further exploring our decarbonization-as-a-service offering across its businesses to accelerate the Group's and the Kingdom's clean energy transition.' Speaking on behalf of Midal Solar (a subsidiary of Midal Cables), the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor for the project, Managing Director Rashed Hamed Alzayani commented, 'This initiative stands as a testament to the growing commitment of the Kingdom's companies to integrate sustainable practices into their core operations. We are honored to serve as the EPC partner for this landmark project, and we look forward to leveraging our technical expertise to deliver a cutting-edge Tier-1 solar energy solution that advances both environmental responsibility and long-term economic value. With a proven track record of delivering over 7.2 MWp of solar projects across the Kingdom, Midal Solar continues to play a leading role in the transition to clean energy, helping to reduce thousands of tons of CO₂ emissions each year. Our involvement in this project reflects our dedication to driving innovation, delivering impact, and supporting the Kingdom's sustainability goals.'
Observer
13-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
Sur desalination plant emerges as a model for eco innovation
MUSCAT: In the sun-soaked South Al Sharqiyah Governorate of Oman, the Sur desalination plant stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the water sector. Managed by Veolia, a global leader in ecological transformation, the plant is the first of its kind in the region — a cutting-edge seawater desalination facility powered entirely by renewable energy during daylight hours. With a daily capacity of 131,837 cubic metres, the Sur plant supplies potable water to around 500,000 residents, addressing the growing demand driven by rapid population and economic expansion. Since its commissioning in 2007, it has delivered over 400 million cubic metres of clean drinking water. But beyond sheer numbers, what sets Sur apart is its ambitious approach to sustainability and efficiency. At the heart of the facility is a suite of advanced technologies designed to minimise environmental impact and optimise performance. The plant uses the world's largest beach well water supply system, which naturally filters seawater through sand, reducing the need for intensive chemical pre-treatment. This innovative intake method not only eases operational costs but also protects marine ecosystems. Further supporting environmental goals are the plant's Energy Recovery Devices (ERDs), which slash energy consumption by 60%. This is crucial in a country where desalination accounts for a significant portion of water supply and where energy use has historically been a concern in such operations. In fact, the facility is 100% solar-powered during daylight hours — a milestone in green infrastructure that aligns with Oman's National Energy Strategy to derive 30% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Veolia's proprietary digital tool, Hubgrade, plays a pivotal role in the plant's daily operations. By integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning, the system enables predictive membrane analytics, real-time process optimisation, and AI-driven maintenance planning. This smart resource management boosts asset efficiency and ensures uninterrupted water supply, even under challenging conditions. Estelle Brachlianoff, CEO of Veolia. Estelle Brachlianoff, CEO of Veolia, emphasised the plant's significance in the region's water security strategy. 'The Sur desalination plant is provided by green energy and solar panels — a sustainable source of energy for a very long time. We also highlight a Gen-AI tool to operate the desalination plant better. Through to what we call the 'barrel', which is a very unique patented solution... it's very modular, so you can have the construction being done in a much more rapid way and use less footprint on the ground. That's another innovation, which is quite disruptive,' she said during an interview with the Observer. The 'barrel' technology — modular Reverse Osmosis units developed by Veolia — enables quick deployment and compact installation. These units support low-footprint pre-treatment systems, including modular media and cartridge filters, as well as a compact Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) system. The result is a facility that is not only energy-efficient but also scalable and adaptable to different water demand scenarios. The Sur desalination plant also pioneers environmental stewardship. Smart brine management ensures compliance with local regulations while minimising ecological harm, and the facility uses minimal chemicals during operations. By reducing stress on groundwater resources and protecting marine biodiversity, the plant sets a benchmark for desalination sustainability. Aligned with Veolia's GreenUp strategic programme and Oman Vision 2040, the Sur desalination plant is more than just infrastructure — it is a model for the future of water supply in arid regions. As demand for clean water continues to rise across the Middle East, this facility exemplifies how technological innovation and environmental responsibility can work hand in hand to deliver secure, affordable, and sustainable water solutions.
Trade Arabia
19-03-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Bapco Energies completes $1bn Reg S sukuk issuance
Bapco Energies, the integrated company leading the energy transition in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has successfully completed a landmark $1 billion Reg S Sukuk issuance with a concurrent capped tender offer for up to 25% of its outstanding $1 billion 7.5% Notes due 2027, thus reinforcing its commitment to financial prudence and market leadership. The Bahraini energy giant returned to the international capital markets on January 16, 2025, with this 10-year sukuk offering. The issuance was met with overwhelming demand, attracting an order book exceeding $4 billion, representing a four-fold oversubscription. This strong interest highlights investor confidence in Bapco Energies' robust market position and financial strength. The tender offer, launched on 13 January 2025, saw robust participation, with more than $200 million of Notes tendered and accepted by Bapco Energies. The sukuk issuance under Bapco Energies $3 billion Trust Certificate Programme, priced at a competitive 6.250% profit rate, marked the tightest ever spread to US Treasuries for a Bapco Energies issuance, thus reflecting the company's strategic approach to capital market engagement. The transaction drew a diversified global investor base, with 80% allocated to GCC investors, 12% to the UK, and 4% each to US offshore and other markets. The parallel execution of the tender offer and sukuk issuance aligns with Bapco Energies' proactive capital structure optimisation and liability management, allowing for effective debt maturity management and enhanced financial flexibility. The repurchase of the notes supports Bapco Energies' long-term financial strategy, strengthening its balance sheet while maintaining liquidity for future strategic investments, it stated. Bapco Energies' Group CEO Mark Thomas said: "These transactions underscore our commitment to disciplined financial management and proactive investor engagement. The strong participation in the tender offer and the success of our sukuk issuance highlight Bapco Energies' resilience and the market's confidence in our strategy." "We continue to position ourselves as a key player in Bahrain's energy transition and a trusted issuer in global capital markets," he stated. According to Thomas, the sukuk proceeds will support Bapco Energies' ongoing investment in the kingdom's energy infrastructure and strategic initiatives aligned with the National Energy Strategy.
