Latest news with #Net-Zero2050
Observer
5 days ago
- Business
- Observer
Pact signed to turn oilfield waste into clean energy
MUSCAT, JUNE 3 Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has signed a pioneering research agreement with ARA Petroleum to explore innovative ways of converting produced brine—a waste byproduct from oil and gas operations—into sustainable energy resources such as biohydrogen and biochar. The agreement was signed at the University's Cultural Centre by Professor Amer bin Saif al Hinai, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Postgraduate Studies and Research at SQU, and Dr Omar bin Salim al Jaaidi, Vice President of ARA Petroleum. The project will be fully funded by ARA Petroleum and supported with its technical expertise, bringing together academic research and industrial know-how to support Oman's sustainability goals. In an interview with the Observer, Dr Saleh al Saadi, Director of the Sustainable Energy Research Centre at SQU, said the collaboration reflects the University's core mission to advance technologies that address real-world challenges. 'This partnership aligns directly with SQU's vision of advancing sustainable technologies by addressing real industrial challenges through research,' Dr Al Saadi said. 'By converting produced water into biohydrogen and biochar, the project supports Oman's Vision 2040 and Net-Zero 2050 goals. It contributes to renewable energy development, water reuse, and environmental protection, while building local research capacity.' Produced brine, typically high in salinity and contaminants, is one of the oil sector's most complex waste streams. Dr Al Saadi's research team aims to overcome technical barriers such as low hydrogen yields and inefficiencies in the conversion process. 'We are tackling major challenges like the high salinity and toxicity of produced water,' he explained. 'Our team is developing an optimised two-stage fermentation system to increase hydrogen output, using biochar to enhance gas quality. In addition, we plan to incorporate AI modelling to improve process efficiency and ensure the project's economic viability. The aim is to transform waste into clean energy and agricultural inputs.' The collaboration is also notable for integrating public, private, and academic stakeholders. It has received strong backing from the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation, with its Ejaad platform playing a vital role in linking academia with industry. 'This collaboration unites academia (SQU), industry (ARA), and government (Ejaad) to address national priorities,' said Dr Al Saadi. 'It shows how joint innovation can drive Oman's transition to a knowledge-based and sustainable economy. It not only enables the development of real-world solutions, but also builds national expertise and accelerates the commercialisation of green technologies.' Dr Omar bin Salim al Jaaidi remarked, 'This collaboration underscores the strength of local expertise and the potential of Oman's young generation. By working with Sultan Qaboos University, we are not only developing sustainable energy solutions, but also empowering the next generation of innovators and researchers to lead efforts to address global environmental challenges.' As the world moves towards more circular and sustainable energy practices, this initiative places Oman at the forefront of research-driven solutions for resource recovery and decarbonisation in the hydrocarbon sector.
Observer
24-02-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman launches first green hydrogen fuel station
MUSCAT, FEB 24 Oman's first hydrogen fueling station was inaugurated here on February 24, 2025. The solar-powered station, operated by Oman Shell, is a result of a partnership with Mwasalat — the country's public transport operator, in addition to Nama Power and Water Procurement, and several government entities. Located in close proximity to Muscat International Airport, the station is expected to produce up to 130 kg of green hydrogen per day onsite using electrolysis technology. Moreover, the station will also offer electric vehicle charging services, in addition to conventional hydrocarbon fueling. In a statement. Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Oman's Minister of Energy and Minerals, highlighted the significance of the station's launch, describing it as a crucial step toward achieving the country's net-zero goals. 'The launch of the Sultanate of Oman's first green hydrogen service station marks a pivotal milestone in our nation's journey toward sustainability and energy diversification. This initiative reflects our commitment to implementing His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik's vision to position Oman as a key player in green hydrogen and a step towards achieving Net-Zero by 2050.' Al Aufi added: 'By integrating renewable energy, onsite hydrogen production, and advanced mobility solutions, this project demonstrates the potential of hydrogen ecosystems in attracting investment and supporting future technologies.' The station is part of Shell's Green Hydrogen for Mobility project. Walid Hadi, VP and Country Chairman of Oman Shell, commented: 'The Green Hydrogen for Mobility project underscores Oman Shell's commitment to sustainable innovation in the Sultanate of Oman. By harnessing renewable solar energy to produce green hydrogen onsite, we are delivering integrated solutions that support the transition to lower-emission transport.' Hadi also highlighted the broader impact of the station within the future of green mobility in Oman. 'This station provides a foundation for exploring the role hydrogen can play in the future of mobility. Beyond infrastructure, the project creates opportunities for local talent, supports Oman's sustainable transition, and encourages cross-sectoral collaboration in the development of the hydrogen ecosystem.' As part of the inauguration ceremony, Mwasalat announced plans to introduce 15 hydrogen-powered vehicles, which were supplied by Shell and will be operated by Mwasalat as part of a B2B transportation service. Eng Badr bin Mohammed al Nadabi, CEO of Mwasalat, stated, 'In collaboration with Oman Shell and Nama Power & Water Procurement Company, we are introducing 15 hydrogen-powered vehicles for premium transport, a milestone in achieving Oman Vision 2040 and the Net-Zero 2050 goals. Beyond advancing clean technology, we are committed to developing local expertise by training and employing Omani drivers through Mwasalat Training Institute, reflecting our dedication to empowering national talent and enhancing sustainable transport capabilities. This initiative positions Oman at the forefront of hydrogen-powered mobility, and with our partners, we will continue to develop integrated transport solutions that drive the green economy and enhance the quality of life in our communities.' Additionally, Nama Power and Water Procurement has committed to supplying 7,000 International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-REC) to Oman Shell over the next five years to ensure that the hydrogen produced at the station is certified as green and sourced from renewable solar energy. The inauguration of the station serves as a major milestone in the country's plans to decarbonise the transport sector. In 2023, the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology unveiled a three-part Green Mobility Plan, which includes the promotion of EV and hydrogen fuel cell use as the short term step. According to the Net-Zero report issued by the Environment Authority in 2022, the transport sector contributes 18 per cent of total carbon emissions (15.9Mt) and is expected to rise to 41 per cent by 2050 at the current rate. These figures currently exclude data from the maritime and aviation sectors. Officials have indicated that these sectors might be incorporated in future reports.
