MUSCAT, June 2 - The fuel marketing sector in Oman could undergo a major revamp in the coming years with the introduction of several integrated facilities, chargers for electric cars, besides contributing to the power grid through solar. Oman will have at least four solar-powered fuel stations as the focus shifts to sustainable and clean energy operations. There will be also more integrated fuel stations on the existing and upcoming expressways, said the top official of a leading fuel marketing company.
Speaking exclusively to the Observer, David Kalife, CEO, Oman Oil Marketing Company, said: “The company has plans to install photovoltaic solar panels at four of its service stations in Burj al Sahwa, Nimr, Halban and Rusayl. Fitted on the rooftop of canopies, the panels will generate 40 kwp. We are partnering in solar with two local SMEs while contributing to the local economy.” He added, “The company recently inaugurated the first-ever solar-powered service station in Oman at Burj al Sahwa, linked directly to the electricity distribution network. In agreement with the Authority for Electricity Regulation (AER), the power generated from the service station’s solar panels can be powered back into the grid in exchange for an agreed tariff.”
Kalife spoke about the strategy for developing fuel stations on the expressways. “We have been the first and the only fuel marketing company that offers service stations on Muscat Expressway, namely in Ghala, Halban and Rusayl. We do believe in proximity with our customers and another service station in the pipeline is in Al Ansab.”
He said the company’s plans are in place and waiting for the green light from the authorities and the outcome of the tendering process for the allocated land plots to build new service stations on Batinah and Sharqiyah expressways.
Oman Oil Marketing Company is opening its 200th service station in Rusayl on Muscat Expressway as part of the ongoing growth strategy.
“As the only fuel marketer company existed on the Muscat Expressway, this specific location will aim to serve the growing number of motorists using the road. With over one million vehicles using the expressway per year, it is paramount that motorists are provided with end-to-end holistic services on one of the Sultanate’s most frequented high-speed roads.”
Kalife said the company will face future customer needs coming from alternative energy.
“We are considering electric chargers for cars as well as other fuels like CNG or H2. As experts in fuel and lubricants, we are offering solutions to various customers in all industries. We study and project market trends based on customer needs and customer wants.”
“Solar-powered fuel stations figure in the long list of environment preservation practices adopted by Oman Oil Marketing.
“In addition, energy is conserved at forecourts with LED lights that cut power consumption by over 40 per cent. The company has also installed an air monitoring system at the Mina al Fahal Refinery to measure and control emission levels,” he added.
Vinod Nair
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