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Times of Oman
20-07-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Biotechnology oversight committee holds meeting
Muscat: The Oversight Committee for Biotechnology in the Sultanate of Oman today held its third meeting, chaired by Dr. Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. During the meeting, the committee reviewed the latest developments regarding the implementation of decisions from its second meeting. This included the crucial task of completing the requirements for preparing the National Biotechnology Strategy in accordance with the approved work plan, as well as finalizing the procedures for appointing the specialized consultant responsible for developing the strategy. The tender for the consultancy services was recently issued through the electronic system of the Projects, Tenders and Local Content Authority. Dr. Kawther Ibrahim Al Balushi, Project Manager for the National Biotechnology Strategy, delivered a visual presentation to the committee members. She outlined the detailed plan for implementing the remaining phase of the project and highlighted the efforts made by various national committees and teams in this regard. Coinciding with the third meeting of the Biotechnology Oversight Committee, a cooperation program was launched and signed to fund the assignment of a consultant for the National Biotechnology Strategy project. This agreement was signed by three parties: the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, and OMIFCO – the project's funding entity. The agreement was signed by Dr. Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, Dr. Khamis Saif Al Jabri on behalf of the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, and Khalid Sulaiman Al Farsi, OMIFCO Director General of Supply Chain.
Observer
19-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Sur Hydrogen Cluster study in Oman advances
MUSCAT, JULY 19 The Sur Hydrogen Cluster and Energy Transition Study – an initiative designed to support the decarbonisation of major industries in the Sur industrial hub – is set to enter the detailed feasibility stage, according to Oman LNG, the lead player spearheading the project. At the heart of the initiative is a comprehensive plan to integrate large-scale renewables and green hydrogen production, enabling a range of industrial, petrochemical, and energy projects operating in Sur to achieve their Net Zero goals. During its preliminary stage, the Sustainable Energy Research Centre (SERC) at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), along with the Oman Hydrogen Alliance (Hy-Fly), assessed the technical, economic, and partnership frameworks required to position Sur as a hydrogen export and low-carbon fuel hub aligned with Oman's national energy transition ambitions. Also participating in the initiative are Phoenix Power Oman (operator of Sur IPP), Oman India Fertilizer Company (OMIFCO), OQ Gas Networks, OQ Alternative Energy, and Madayn – the authority administering Sur Industrial City. Sharing an update on the initiative, Oman LNG stated: 'We recently held a framing session with our key partners – Oman India Fertiliser Company SAOC (OMIFCO), OQ Gas Networks (OQGN), and OQAE – to shape the Sur Hydrogen and Energy Transition Cluster Study. We are now finalising the scope of work, which will be followed by the tendering process for a detailed feasibility study, expected to commence in the second quarter of 2025, with the Oman Energy Association (OPAL) managing the tender. This initiative is part of our broader commitment to advancing Oman's position as a leader in green hydrogen and energy transition.' The project envisions the use of renewable energy to produce green hydrogen, which will serve as a fuel resource for project stakeholders. This shift will displace significant volumes of natural gas currently used as fuel and feedstock by Sur-based industries. The freed-up gas could then be redirected by Oman LNG for liquefaction and export. An output of around 487 tonnes per day of low-carbon hydrogen is anticipated if and when the Sur Hydrogen Cluster is fully implemented. In addition to the cluster initiative, Oman LNG is also weighing a host of schemes to support its energy transition, energy efficiency, and decarbonisation goals. 'Key initiatives for the year include developing a FEED package for the power import project, finalising green power sourcing concepts with a robust commercial model, and conducting comprehensive assessments to enhance energy efficiency,' the majority state-owned company noted in its 2024 Sustainability Report. Furthermore, the company has conducted a techno-economic analysis of opportunities linked to proposals such as solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation capacity, Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity, and flare gas recovery. Oman LNG is working closely with OQ Alternative Energy to explore optimal renewable energy sourcing. Additionally, a new Energy Efficiency Improvement Programme was launched this year to enhance or maintain the high thermal efficiency of Oman LNG's triple-train complex at Qalhat. 'This initiative will focus on identifying practical ways to increase efficiency and sustain our top-tier results. We are currently finalising the delivery plan for this programme, which underscores our ongoing commitment to operational excellence and responsible energy use,' the company added.
Muscat Daily
01-03-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
South Sharqiyah launches initiative to revive traditional shipbuilding
Sur – South Sharqiyah has launched an initiative called Al Wastada aimed at reviving the traditional shipbuilding industry and preserving Oman's maritime heritage. Backed by Oman India Fertiliser Company (OMIFCO) with support from multiple government bodies, including Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, and Industrial Innovation Academy, the programme will train young Omanis in the craft of traditional shipbuilding. The core objective of Al Wastada is to provide hands-on training in both theoretical and practical aspects of constructing authentic Omani boats. Participants will learn how to produce certified high-quality boats, which will serve not only as heritage artefacts but also as means of integrating economic innovation into the preservation of Omani culture. In addition to safeguarding Oman's traditional craftsmanship, the programme is designed to create new employment opportunities for young Omanis. By equipping participants with valuable skills, Al Wastada aims to enable them to turn their craftsmanship into sustainable livelihoods and career paths. The nine-month training programme will combine classroom learning with practical experience, providing trainees with the expertise to construct traditional Omani ships in accordance with established technical standards. The programme will document the generational knowledge of shipbuilding, ensuring that these skills are passed on to future generations. The first cohort of 20 trainees will begin their training in April.
