Global thought leaders will converge in Oman this month to tackle the evolving challenges, opportunities and trends in the gas sector worldwide.

The International Unconventional Gas Conference and Exhibition will take place at the Ritz Carlton Al Bustan Palace from January 20 to 22. It is being organised by Knowledge Expansion, a leading oil and gas knowledge transfer consultancy.

The worldwide energy consumption is projected to surge by about 50 per cent by 2030, creating a growing urgency for unconventional solutions in the gas sector, particularly in the Gulf where hydrocarbons make up 86 per cent of government revenues and fuel economic growth.

While the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia holds 40 per cent of the world’s proven gas reserves, it only accounts for 15 per cent of global gas production, indicating the massive untapped potential.

The event will be attended by influential decision makers, thought leaders and stakeholders in the industry aimed at maximising the potential of unconventional gas.

The major challenge that faces the Middle East in its aim to strengthen its position in the gas sector is that unconventional gas types like tight gas and shale gas require more advanced technologies and expertise.

While the region’s existing conventional gas fields remain highly productive, the Gulf governments have opted for a proactive approach by exploring alternative solutions.

Tight gas exploration and appraisals in countries like Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Algeria, Egypt and Libya have increased and are expected to ultimately strengthen energy security, unlocking new economical energy sources.

Rafeeq Kunhi, firector at Knowledge Expansion, said: “On one hand the region has enormous potential in unconventional gas, but on the other hand we have pinpointed a technological and knowledge gap in this field. The event will enrich the region’s knowledge reservoir, boosting long-term sustainability and positioning the region at the forefront of the world’s unconventional gas sector.”

Key discussion areas include the elements of success for an unconventional gas development; sustainability and technology in this sector.

The event will identify, explore and showcase untapped opportunities for oil and gas companies to transfer skills and knowledge. - TradeArabia News Service