MUSCAT: The RO 72 million Masirah Island electricity connection project is set to transform power supply and investment potential on the island, linking it to Oman’s national grid via advanced transmission lines and submarine cables. The project, considered the first of its kind in the Sultanate of Oman, is expected to be completed by Q4 2026.
In an exclusive interview with Oman Observer, Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, emphasised the strategic significance of the project. “This will be the first subsea cable in Oman, giving us valuable experience in executing similar projects for other locations in the future,” he said. “For Masirah Island, this will expand power capacity significantly—from the current diesel generator output of 50 to 56 megawatts to over 200 megawatts—creating new investment opportunities and industrial growth.”
PROJECT EXECUTION AND KEY MILESTONES
The project is designed to enhance grid reliability and energy sustainability, featuring the construction of a 132/33 kV Masirah Grid Station, a 132 kV overhead transmission line spanning 60 km, a 142 kV subsea cable covering 25 km, and a 132 kV underground cable of 9 km. These components will connect Masirah Grid Station to Mahout Grid Station, securing a stable power supply for Masirah Island.
Since its inception, the project has made significant progress, beginning with the contractors' tender process in Q3 2023. The contract was subsequently awarded in Q3 2024 to Bahwan Engineering Company (BEC) and Hengtong. Tractebel Engineering was appointed as the project consultant, ensuring the implementation adheres to global engineering and safety standards. Currently, more than 10% of the project has already been completed, with all major contractors and consultants in place. According to Eng Al Aufi, the project is progressing on schedule, and every effort is being made to ensure it is delivered on time and within budget.
SUSTAINABILITY AND FUTURE ENERGY INTEGRATION
The project aligns with Oman’s clean energy and sustainability goals, playing a key role in reducing carbon emissions by more than 80,000 tonnes per year through the replacement of diesel generators. Additionally, it has been designed to facilitate future renewable energy integration, allowing for potential power exports from Masirah Island to the mainland.
Eng Al Aufi highlighted this aspect, stating, “We are looking into expanding renewable energy generation on the island and using the same cable to reverse the electricity flow back into the main grid. This project not only ensures Masirah’s energy security but also contributes to Oman’s long-term renewable energy ambitions.”
Furthermore, the submarine cable technology employed in this project could serve as a foundation for future regional energy-sharing agreements. Once Oman’s interconnection with the GCC grid is complete, this infrastructure will enhance energy exchange across the region, providing opportunities for power trading and strategic cooperation with neighboring countries.
OETC’S VISION FOR A STRONGER NATIONAL GRID
Eng Saleh bin Nasser al Rumhi, CEO of Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC), reaffirmed the company’s dedication to strengthening Oman’s electricity transmission network and ensuring that it operates at global efficiency and performance standards. “OETC works diligently to align with Oman Vision 2040 and the directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, ensuring infrastructure meets international standards of reliability and sustainability,” he stated.
As the sole company managing Oman’s electricity transmission network, OETC plays a vital role in the nation’s economic and energy security strategies. Al Rumhi emphasised that OETC is fully committed to delivering this landmark project successfully, viewing it as a stepping stone for future power infrastructure investments that will boost economic growth and industrial development in the Sultanate of Oman.
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