Kuwait's solar energy powers 16m gas cylinders a year
He also highlighted the aspiration of the company to expand its oil tanker fleet, which currently includes 31 vessels. He revealed a comprehensive strategy is being developed and will be announced soon, reaffirming that KOTC continues to meet all marketing demands and remains a key player in the energy logistics of the country. He added the shipping operations of KOTCH remain stable, even amid global trade tensions, thanks to strategic planning for crisis scenarios. He confirmed that the current trade war has not affected the markets of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC). 'Our distribution and marketing operations are built on long-term, strategic relationships,' he asserted; while stressing the commitment of the country to fulfill all international contracts. He added Kuwait maintains a strong overseas presence with seven million barrels of oil stored in Asia -- three million in Japan and four million in South Korea. He disclosed that KPC has a comprehensive strategic plan to study markets and market needs, determine development capacity and increase vessels based on market data.
Asked about the merger of the two gas plants into the Kuwait National Petroleum Company (KNPC), he confirmed that the integration of the Umm Al-Aish and Shuaiba gas plants into KNPC is moving forward as per an ambitious plan. He said KNPC currently provides gas to KOTC tankers, highlighting the synergy between national entities. On the other hand, Director of the Projects and Maritime Agency Group at KOTC Yousef Al-Khamis stated that the solar energy conversion project cost around KD1.9 million; indicating this investment is expected to save about 16,000 barrels of oil annually and generate 11,000 megawatts of clean energy; thereby, easing pressure on the national electrical grid. Al-Khamis also unveiled the plan to establish a third gas cylinder factory in Kabad, while the two existing plants can meet domestic demand until 2030. He said the expansion is part of the company's long-term strategy. He also addressed concerns about misuse of household gas cylinders by restaurants. 'We are coordinating with the Cooperative Societies Union and the Ministry of Commerce to implement mechanisms that prevent restaurants from using cylinders designated for residential use, instead of commercial cylinders,' he added.
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