Oman- Dutch companies looking for synergy at energy expo

Speaking at the event, H E Laetitia van Asch, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Oman, said, 'The Netherlands companies here make me very proud because they have technology that is proven to work and they have experience in the region, so they can showcase what is possible. We hope they use the networking opportunities available at this exhibition to expand their work.'

It is the fifth edition of the conference where more than 15 countries are taking part including the US, the UK and several others from Europe and the Middle East. The meet is discussing various strategies to deal with the challenges of water and energy.

H E Laetitia added, 'Water, energy and food are vital components in meeting the needs of a growing population and continued economic development. Meanwhile, climate change and environmental stress are putting these already scarce resources under stress. I have noticed in the past two years in Oman that the attitude towards more efficient use of water and energy and using renewables is improving. I have a very positive outlook on the outcomes here. It is up to the Omani side to see which solutions are practical for Oman.

'If Dutch technologies can help, then I think that's a great combination. Oman has set the target of increasing the share of renewable energy in meeting demand to 20 per cent by 2030.'

On Monday a paper titled 'Water-Energy-Food Nexus-Oman' was presented, which provided a snapshot of opportunities for Oman and the Netherlands to cooperate further in the fields of water, energy, and food.

The Dutch companies, some of which have already begun projects in Oman, hope to make use of local talent in their work. The three-day event ends on Wednesday.