The Supreme council for Energy and Water Affairs discussed a number of files related to the oil, gas, electricity and water sectors.
According to our government platform,the meeting,which was held under the chairmanship of the Chairman of the Council,Prime Minister Abdul hamid Dabaiba and in the presence of Council members,discussed the executive procedures for initiating the public tender round aimed at offering new exploratory pieces.
For his part, Council Member and Chairman of the National Oil Corporation, Farhat Ben Qaddara, gave a presentation on the public tender round to offer a number of blocks for exploration in land and sea areas, after the procedures guide was approved and the new standard agreement was prepared after making the necessary technical amendments.
The Technical Committee presented a visual presentation showing the areas and discoveries that will be presented in the general announcement round of 2024, which amounted to 22 new pieces, in addition to the technical procedures according to the approved timetable for implementation, and the modern method of bidding by entering the virtual data room.
The Corporation’s technical departments also reviewed to the Council the progress of work on the production increase plan, confirming their commitment to the approved timetable, noting that production today reached 1.422 million barrels of oil and condensates.
The attendees also discussed settling the conditions of the Ras Lanuf refinery after completing the procedures for exiting the foreign partner and approving the corporation to purchase the share. The council recommended the need to operate and modernize the refinery to contribute to providing the oil derivatives needed by the local market.
The Council also discussed the project to establish the Grate Tripoli Reservoir to be implemented by the Man-Made River Project Implementation and management authority, where the Council confirmed its support and approval of the growth projects presented by the River Authority and the provision of the necessary financial allocations to address the water scarcity that a number of municipalities and regions suffer from.
According to the platform, at the conclusion of the meeting, Al-Dabaiba stressed the support of the National Unity Government for the corporation’s plan to increase oil and gas production, and to give priority in the development plan to projects to provide drinking water and implement water supply lines.
Bumper: Our government platform
What are the key initiatives being implemented to improve Libya’s water supply and tackle water scarcity?
Exclusive Interview: Insights on Libya’s Energy and Water Sector from Expert Farhat Ben Qaddara
Editor: Welcome,Mr. Farhat Ben Qaddara, Chairman of the National Oil Corporation. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent developments in Libya’s energy and water sectors.
Ben Qaddara: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss these critical issues.
Editor: The Supreme Council for Energy and Water Affairs recently held a significant meeting. Can you share what was the primary focus of that discussion?
Ben Qaddara: Certainly. the meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Abdul hamid Dabaiba, focused on the executive procedures for the new public tender round aimed at offering exploratory blocks for oil and gas. We’re looking to enhance our exploration efforts both on land and at sea by presenting 22 new pieces in our upcoming general proclamation round scheduled for 2024.
Editor: That sounds promising. What are the implications of introducing these exploratory pieces for Libya’s oil and gas sector?
Ben Qaddara: The implications are profound. Increased exploration will not only enhance our oil and gas production but also attract foreign investment. This is essential for modernizing our infrastructure and boosting our energy capacity to meet both local and international demands. The technical amendments we’ve prepared for our standard contracts will facilitate smoother negotiations with potential partners.
Editor: You mentioned a modern method of bidding through a virtual data room. how does this approach alter the bidding process?
Ben Qaddara: The virtual data room allows bidders to access detailed facts securely and efficiently. This innovation streamlines the process and enhances clarity, which is crucial in building investor confidence. It modernizes the bidding process, making it easier for companies to participate and submit competitive bids.
Editor: The meeting also addressed the Ras Lanuf refinery. Can you elaborate on the plans for its modernization?
Ben Qaddara: Yes, the Ras Lanuf refinery is a crucial asset for our energy sector. We discussed completing the exit of foreign partners and finalizing the purchase of shares to enhance our autonomy.Modernizing the refinery will enable us to produce the oil derivatives needed for local markets more efficiently, contributing significantly to Libya’s energy independence.
Editor: Water scarcity is an ongoing challenge for many municipalities. What initiatives are being undertaken to mitigate this issue?
Ben Qaddara: During the meeting, we discussed the establishment of the Great Tripoli Reservoir under the Man-Made River Project. The Council emphasized its support and approved necessary funding to address the critical water shortages faced by various regions. Prioritizing projects that ensure access to clean drinking water is a key part of our progress plan.
Editor: What message do you have for the readers regarding the government’s commitment to these projects?
Ben Qaddara: The National Unity Government remains firmly committed to increasing oil, gas production, and improving water supply. We are prioritizing these initiatives as part of our broader strategy to ensure sustainable resource management and enhance quality of life for all citizens.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Ben Qaddara, for your insights. Any final thoughts for our readers?
Ben Qaddara: The developments in Libya’s energy and water sectors present a significant chance for growth and improvement. I encourage all stakeholders,both local and international,to engage with us as we move forward on these crucial projects. Together, we can build a more resilient and prosperous Libya.
Editor: Thank you once again for sharing your expertise with us today. We look forward to seeing how these initiatives unfold.
This interview provides insights into Libya’s future in the energy and water sectors, emphasizing the government’s commitment to sustainable growth through innovative practices and modernization efforts.