Interview: Tareq Al Roumi, Minister of Oil; and Chairman, Board of Directors, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), on contributing to environmental targets while meeting energy demand
How do you envision Kuwait balancing its commitment to traditional oil production with the growing global shift towards renewable energy sources?
TAREQ AL ROUMI: Kuwait aims to maintain its position in oil production while adapting to a changing global energy landscape. As decarbonisation efforts expand, the focus is on balancing hydrocarbons with sustainability initiatives. The 2050 Energy Transition Strategy led by the national oil company, KPC, guides this balance, allowing the country to meet energy demand while contributing to long-term environmental objectives.
Oil will continue to underpin Kuwait’s economy and energy security, particularly in sectors where renewables are harder to integrate, such as petrochemicals, aviation and heavy industry. At the same time, its role is evolving in tandem with the deployment of renewable energy; carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) projects; and the development of alternative fuels, including green hydrogen and biofuels. KPC has begun integrating these technologies into operations to support efficiency and environmental responsibility. Efforts such as electrifying production sites with renewable power and reducing methane emissions reflect a practical approach to sustainability while maintaining supply reliability.
What strategies are Kuwait implementing to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce emissions?
AL ROUMI: Kuwait is pursuing diversification and emissions reduction while preserving its role as a significant energy producer. CCUS is a central element, aimed at reducing emissions from production and refining. Enhanced oil recovery using CO injection is being introduced to sustain output and limit environmental impact. Cleaner fuel production aligned with international standards supports efficiency in downstream operations. Investments in solar and wind projects help to electrify parts of the energy system and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The development of biofuels, green hydrogen and charging infrastructure for electric vehicles supports long-term resilience. These measures contribute to reduction targets for direct and indirect greenhouse gas emission sources, helping Kuwait adapt to evolving global demand.
In what roles do digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) play in enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of Kuwait’s energy industry?
AL ROUMI: Technology is central to improving performance, reducing emissions and maintaining competitiveness. Digital transformation and AI are being applied across the sector to support predictive maintenance, data-informed decision-making and real-time monitoring. AI tools enhance reservoir management, improve drilling accuracy, and reduce energy consumption in production and refining. These approaches lower costs, reduce environmental impact and increase productivity. Automation is streamlining downstream and petrochemical processes, helping minimise downtime and maintain output consistency. Blockchain is being explored to improve security and transparency in trade and supply chain operations.
To what extent is Kuwait working with neighbours to foster regional energy security and leverage shared resources to enhance economic stability?
AL ROUMI: Kuwait views regional cooperation as essential for long-term energy security and economic stability within the GCC. As a founding member of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Kuwait contributes to coordinated production strategies and participates in OPEC+ agreements, alongside other allied oil-producing nations that support balance in the market. Collaboration focuses on natural gas development, infrastructure links and energy trade. Shared regional energy projects aimed at securing long-term fuel supply also highlight the value of joint resource management within the Gulf energy system.
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