Oman environment: Renewable energy can augment oil, gas income

Muscat: Power generation through renewable sources, such as solar energy, can help Oman earn more from oil and gas, according to His Highness Sayyid Tarik bin Shabib Al Said, patron of the Environment Society of Oman (ESO).
Speaking to the media during the celebration of Oman Environment Day by the Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), Sayyid Tarik pointed out that the importance of using renewable energy cannot be overlooked, and in fact, it complements the Sultanate’s conventional resources.
“We need renewable energy to boost our conventional fossil fuel income.
“Every time we sell a barrel of oil that is saved due to renewable sources, we make money. So, they are not in competition with each other, unlike the common perception, but rather complement each other,” he maintained.
He added that the production of electricity through renewable sources must be given incentives, to encourage its development.
The Environment Day Celebration, held at the PDO headquarters in Mina Al Fahal, focused on energy management. The PDO signed agreements with the Ministry of Education and Riyada to increase the use of renewable energy.
The joint venture will promote renewable energy use through innovative competitions aimed at school students and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Schools students will be encouraged to take part in competitions that will be designed to enhance their research and awareness in the field of renewable energy.