Latest news with #KOTC
Kuwait Times
22-05-2025
- General
- Kuwait Times
Biodiversity protection a shared responsibility for sustainability: EPA
KUWAIT: The Environment Public Authority (EPA) reaffirmed Thursday that the protection of biodiversity is a collective responsibility and a moral and humanitarian obligation, requiring unified national and global efforts to secure a prosperous present and a sustainable future for generations to come. Acting Director General of the EPA Nouf Behbehani made the remarks during a ceremony marking the International Day for Biological Diversity (IBD), organized by the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET), Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC), and the National Committee of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In her address, Behbehani noted that IBD, observed annually on May 22, commemorates the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity during the landmark 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. The summit, she said, marked a pivotal moment in global environmental governance with the adoption of three major conventions: the Convention on Biological Diversity, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), forming the foundation of international environmental sustainability efforts. Behbehani highlighted that this year's celebration is held under the theme 'Be Part of the Plan,' which calls for harmonizing development with nature and underscores the urgent need to redefine humanity's relationship with the environment. She emphasized that safeguarding biodiversity is vital to ensuring food and water security, climate stability, and public health. She outlined four key pillars of the national biodiversity campaign: raising public awareness on the importance of biodiversity; updating national strategies in alignment with international frameworks; strengthening cross-sectoral collaboration to fulfill obligations under global environmental treaties; and encouraging development initiatives that prioritize environmental protection and long-term sustainability. Representing KOTC's Acting CEO Sheikh Khaled Ahmed Al-Malik Al-Sabah, Acting Director of the Health, Safety and Environment Group Mohammed Mirza reiterated the company's longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship. He affirmed KOTC's active role in promoting sustainable practices and supporting national initiatives aligned with Kuwait's environmental vision. Mirza highlighted the company's achievements, including the full operation of its LPG filling branches in Shuaiba and Umm Al-Aish using solar energy. He also pointed to the environmental compliance of the company's fleet, which adheres to international maritime regulations such as ballast water treatment systems and emission reduction measures. KOTC, he added, remains engaged in various environmental initiatives, including coastal cleanups, awareness campaigns, tree planting, recycling, and climate change mitigation. Meanwhile, Dr Wijdan Al-Oqab, Chairperson of the IUCN National Committee and President of the Kuwait Environment Protection Society (KEPS), emphasized Kuwait's international commitment to biodiversity through its ratification of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the submission of national reports. She called for a serious re-evaluation of the current environmental situation in the country and advocated for a shift from an exploitative relationship with nature to a balanced and cooperative approach. Dr Al-Oqab lauded the EPA's executive role in implementing environmental legislation and monitoring adherence to global agreements, in addition to the contributions of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research and civil society organizations in advancing environmental awareness. She further praised KEPS' pioneering efforts in public education, including the production of Arab-recognized environmental documentaries such as 'Every Day a Bird' and 'Every Day a Plant,' which have documented Kuwait's wildlife and now serve as valuable scientific and educational resources across the Arab world and within Kuwaiti schools. The event underscored a unified call for action to protect biodiversity as a cornerstone of sustainable development and environmental resilience. — KUNA
Zawya
16-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Kuwait's solar energy powers 16mln gas cylinders a year
Kuwait - Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kuwait Oil Tankers Company (KOTC) Sheikh Khaled Al-Sabah has announced that Kuwait is now producing 16 million gas cylinders annually using solar energy through the Umm Al-Aish and Shuaiba plants, which have a combined production capacity of seven megawatts without using electricity from the national power grid. This is considered a significant move towards using solar energy to generate electricity in order to reduce reliance on electricity loads. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony for the conversion of production in both plants to solar power, Sheikh Khaled Al-Sabah affirmed that this step is in line with the strategic plan of the country to reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. He described the project as a vital part of the ongoing effort to reduce reliance on conventional energy and limit environmental impact. 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.
Arab Times
15-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait's solar energy powers 16m gas cylinders a year
KUWAIT CITY, May 15: Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kuwait Oil Tankers Company (KOTC) Sheikh Khaled Al-Sabah has announced that Kuwait is now producing 16 million gas cylinders annually using solar energy through the Umm Al-Aish and Shuaiba plants, which have a combined production capacity of seven megawatts without using electricity from the national power grid. This is considered a significant move towards using solar energy to generate electricity in order to reduce reliance on electricity loads. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony for the conversion of production in both plants to solar power, Sheikh Khaled Al-Sabah affirmed that this step is in line with the strategic plan of the country to reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. He described the project as a vital part of the ongoing effort to reduce reliance on conventional energy and limit environmental impact. 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.
Zawya
14-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Kuwait's KOTC launches solar power plants at LNG stations in Umm Al-Aish and Shuaiba
KUWAIT CITY - The Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC) announced Tuesday the inauguration of solar power plants at its two liquefied natural gas (LNG) filling stations in Umm Al-Aish and Shuaiba, with a combined capacity of 4.05 megawatts. During a ceremony marking the launch, KOTC's Acting CEO Sheikh Khaled Ahmad Al-Malik Al-Sabah stated that the company is now the first in Kuwait's oil sector to implement such a strategic renewable energy initiative. Sheikh Khaled said the project is part of KOTC's broader goal to achieve full operational capacity at the two LNG stations using renewable energy, underscoring its contribution to environmental sustainability. He described the initiative as a strategic milestone in the company's efforts to reach energy self-sufficiency by running key facilities entirely on solar power. This, he noted, would significantly reduce reliance on the national electricity grid and lower the company's carbon footprint. The KOTC chief emphasized that the solar project aligns with Kuwait's vision for carbon neutrality and its national efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting clean energy solutions, the project not only boosts environmental sustainability but also enhances operational efficiency and reduces costs in line with international standards. Sheikh Khaled also commended the company's technical team for their dedication and follow-up throughout the project, highlighting the role of national talent in advancing Kuwait's shift toward environmentally and economically viable energy solutions. arabtimes
Kuwait Times
13-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
KOTC inaugurates solar power plants at LNG stations
Participants attend the inauguration ceremony. – KUNA photos KUWAIT: Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC) on Tuesday announced the official launch of solar power plants at its two liquefied natural gas (LNG) filling stations in Umm Al-Aish and Shuaiba, with a combined production capacity of 4.05 megawatts. The announcement was made during an inauguration ceremony, where KOTC's Acting CEO Sheikh Khaled Ahmad Al-Malik Al-Sabah affirmed that the company is the first in Kuwait's oil sector to implement such a strategic renewable energy project. 'This initiative represents a significant step forward in achieving energy self-sufficiency and fully operating our LNG stations using renewable energy,' Sheikh Khaled said, emphasizing the company's commitment to environmental sustainability. He noted that the project is aligned with Kuwait's national vision to achieve carbon neutrality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adding that it reduces reliance on the national electricity grid and minimizes the carbon footprint by effectively harnessing solar energy. Acting CEO of Kuwait Oil Tanker Company, Sheikh Khaled Ahmed Al-Malik Al-Sabah, during his speech. Sheikh Khaled described the project as a pioneering model for clean energy within Kuwait's oil sector, highlighting its role in enhancing operational efficiency, lowering costs, and supporting environmental goals in line with the highest international standards. He also praised the dedicated efforts of KOTC's team in bringing the project to fruition, underscoring the contribution of Kuwaiti talent in driving sustainable energy initiatives that deliver both environmental and economic benefits to the nation. — KUNA
