IBRI: The Special Economic Zone at Al Dhahirah (SEZAD) has brought into operation a solar energy system integrated into its main infrastructure project, covering the construction of primary roads and surface-water drainage networks. The works are being implemented by an Omani-Saudi business consortium.
The hybrid renewable system has a peak capacity of 512 kWp, supported by battery storage of 788 kWh, with daily electricity production reaching 2,446 kWh, according to officials.
It is designed to meet 100% of the project’s power needs during winter. In summer, it is expected to supply 70% of evening power through solar-charged batteries, with the remaining 30% provided by diesel generators.
Officials said the initiative is expected to reduce carbon emissions by an average of 24.8 tonnes of CO₂ per month and deliver cost savings of up to 25%.
Eng Ibrahim bin Yusuf al Zadjali, Project Manager of SEZAD, said the move aligns with the mandate of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) to encourage renewable energy adoption.
He noted that OPAZ has allocated 17 square kilometres within the SEZAD master plan for solar farms and renewable energy projects.
The first phase included the installation of 600 solar panels over 5,000 square metres, implemented by an Omani technical team from IP Energy.
The main infrastructure project is running ahead of schedule, with actual completion at 14.87%, above the planned target of 14.41%, officials said.
Valued at RO 22.3 million, the project includes a strong in-country value component. The consortium has signed 11 agreements with small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with 27% of the total project value awarded to SMEs. Of those SME contracts, 60% have been allocated to firms registered in Al Dhahirah Governorate.
Looking ahead, OPAZ is expected to award tenders for the third and fourth packages soon, including a dry port, a veterinary quarantine facility and a commercial-administrative complex.
Spanning 388 sq km, the zone is located about 20 km from the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) border crossing and aims to stimulate cross-border trade between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia while supporting regional economic diversification. — ONA
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