PDO branches out

The firm is building on decades of experience to further develop its technological prowess and encompass alternative fuels

Petroleum Development Oman is a remarkable survivor, dating back in some form to 1937. It's a curious hybrid, not quite a national oil company, but more than a private joint venture. And it's embarking on probably its biggest transformation—even changing its name—since the government acquired a majority stake in 1974. The new 'Energy Development Oman' (EDO) now faces three major tasks: to sustain production from increasingly mature oil and gas fields; to introduce new hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon technologies; and to strengthen the national economy and capabilities. Along with its wider capabilities Sultan Qaboos, ruler since 1970, PDO has built Oman. When the sultan overthrew his father,