MUSCAT, FEB 24
The Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR) has announced an ambitious lineup of energy and water projects aimed at reinforcing Oman's sustainability goals and economic growth. Speaking at a media conference, held under the auspices of Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals on Monday, APSR Chairman Dr Mansour bin Talib al Hinai outlined key regulatory measures, investment plans, and future initiatives that align with Oman Vision 2040 and the country’s commitment to net-zero emissions.
Oman is accelerating its transition to clean energy, with multiple solar and wind energy projects set for implementation over the next decade. According to Dr Al Hinai, six major renewable projects are planned for 2027, including the Ibri 3 Solar Plant (500) megawatts (MW), Duqm Wind Farm (250 MW), Jaalan Bani Bu Ali Wind Project (100 MW), Dhofar 2 Wind Farm (120 MW), Sadah Wind Project (90 MW), and Mahout 1 Wind Project (300-400 MW). By 2029, APSR will roll out 29 solar projects generating 1,000 MW, along with wind energy projects in Shaleem (100 MW) and Al Jazir (100 MW).
Additionally, a 3,000 MW solar project is scheduled for 2030, marking a significant leap in Oman’s renewable energy production. Dr Al Hinai highlighted that renewable energy now contributes 9% of total energy production in Oman, and APSR is committed to increasing this share through strategic projects.
The energy and water sectors are playing a crucial role in Oman's economic development, with their contribution to GDP expected to rise from 2.2% in 2020 to 2.5% in 2024.
Investment in regulated sectors between 2020 and 2024 reached approximately RO 2.837 billion, with RO 1.785 billion allocated to electricity sector projects, RO 450 million invested in power generation, RO 562 million for transmission network upgrades, and RO 773 million for electricity distribution improvements. Additionally, local value contributions from regulated companies are set to grow from RO 35 million in 2023 to RO 66 million in 2024.
APSR has implemented measures to enhance service delivery and ensure customer satisfaction. The average time to deliver electricity to homes has been reduced to two days, while water supply now takes five days, down from the seven-day target. The rate of beneficiary satisfaction has increased from 70% to 75%, and treated sewage water usage has risen to 98%. Meanwhile, Oman’s power transmission network reliability stands at 99.9%, despite sudden outages reaching 14%.
Dr Al Hinai also announced new regulatory policies aimed at protecting consumers from service disruptions. He stated that utility disconnections are now prohibited on the last working day of the week, weekly holidays, between 5:00 PM and 7:00 AM, during General Education Diploma exams, and Ramadhan. These measures are part of APSR’s broader strategy to ensure continuous and reliable access to essential services.
Beyond large-scale renewable energy projects, APSR is also focusing on innovative sustainability initiatives. Among them are a water purification and energy storage project at Wadi Dayqah Dam, a feasibility study for geothermal energy utilisation, waste-to-energy projects including biofuel for cement production, and community solar stations for educational and healthcare facilities. Dr Al Hinai emphasised that the future of Oman’s energy sector lies in innovation and sustainability, with a commitment to maximising the country’s renewable resources while ensuring economic and environmental benefits.
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