Source:solarquarter
Bulgaria and Oman are set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their energy ties within the next two months. This decision follows a meeting between Bulgarian Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov and Omani Minister of Energy and Minerals Eng. Salim Al Aufi.
The forthcoming MoU aims to boost bilateral cooperation in various energy sectors, including oil and gas, hydrogen, renewable energy production and storage, and potential Omani investment in Bulgaria.
Minister Malinov emphasized the importance of securing and diversifying Bulgaria’s energy supply as a key component of national security. He highlighted the upcoming commercial operation of the LNG terminal near Alexandroupolis, Greece, where Bulgaria holds a stake. The ministers discussed the possibility of importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Oman to help meet Bulgaria’s winter energy needs.
Minister Al Aufi expressed interest in Bulgaria’s expertise with pumped storage hydropower plants as a means of storing energy from renewable sources. Additionally, the ministers explored the potential for collaboration in hydrogen energy. Bulgaria’s role as a gateway for hydrogen to Europe was noted, particularly through a joint project with Greece to build a hydrogen interconnector, which has been recognized as a Project of Common Interest by the EU. Romania is also interested in joining this initiative.
The MoU will outline these discussions and serve as a foundation for advancing bilateral energy relations between Bulgaria and Oman.