The Ministry of Energy (MoE) has invited 13 prequalified contractors to submit bids by 21 August for the C-2 second-phase pipeline package on the Subiya water storage and distribution scheme. Under the terms of the contract, the successful contractor will construct a 1.2-metre-diameter water pipeline extending from the Subiya desalination plant to the nearby water distribution complex. The scope of works also covers trench excavation, pipe welding, backfilling and connection of the pipeline to the existing cathodic protection system, and flushing and disinfection. Construction will take about 30 months. The local Mohamed Abdulmohsin Kharafi & Sons was awarded theKD 6.3 million ($20 million) phase 1 work in 2003 (MEED 2:8:02). A tender is also expected to be issued shortly for the C-3 phase 2 package to build a 53-kilometre section of 48-inch-diameter pipeline from the Subiya desalination plant to Mutla (MEED 24:6:05). Binnie & Partners (Overseas), part of the UK-based BinnieBlack & Veatch, is the consultant for the entire scheme (MEED 20:9:02).