MUSCAT, JUNE 24 Oman on Tuesday launched a RO 5 million community solar energy programme aimed at expanding access to renewable power, cutting electricity costs for households and encouraging greater private-sector participation in the country's energy transition.
The Imtidad Community Solar Power Stations Programme, launched under the auspices of Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, will support the development of community solar projects with a combined generation capacity of around 20 megawatts, according to the Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR).
The initiative is expected to provide savings of up to 40 per cent on electricity bills for beneficiaries of the National Electricity Support Scheme while increasing the contribution of renewable energy to Oman's power sector.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, APSR Chairman Eng Mansoor bin Talib al Hinai said the programme represented a new model for broadening public access to renewable energy.
"The Imtidad programme is not merely an electricity generation project. Rather, it presents an innovative national model that delivers tangible benefits to members of society by enabling beneficiaries to access and utilise solar energy easily and conveniently," Al Hinai said.
He said the programme would help expand the use of renewable energy, improve resource efficiency and transform part of government support spending into productive assets capable of generating long-term value for beneficiaries and the national economy.
The first phase of the programme involves the establishment of community solar stations with generation capacity exceeding 20 MW. APSR said the initiative would support beneficiaries of the national electricity subsidy system while creating economic, social and environmental benefits.
The launch also marked the inauguration of Imtidad 1, the Sultanate of Oman's first community solar power station. Located in Al Wadi Al Kabir in Muscat Governorate, the facility has a generation capacity of 1.46 MW and is equipped with nearly 2,000 solar panels.
Project officials said the station was developed at an investment of approximately RO 300,000 and is intended to serve as a pilot model for future community solar projects across the Sultanate of Oman.
The project was delivered through a competitive tender process involving Omani SMEs and renewable energy companies, reflecting the programme's focus on strengthening local content and developing domestic capabilities in the clean energy sector.
Sumaya al Rawahi, Chief Executive Officer of Green Universe Enterprise, said the project demonstrated the ability of Omani SMEs to participate in large-scale renewable energy initiatives.
"We were very proud to be one of the SMEs selected to execute this project. The objective was to have an Omani SME deliver the project, and we were able to meet both the technical and commercial requirements," she said.
Al Rawahi said the project provided valuable experience for local companies and would help strengthen national capabilities in the renewable energy sector as similar community solar projects are rolled out across the Sultanate of Oman.
Meanwhile, Nasser al Jabri, Chief Operating Officer of Nafath Renewables, said the initiative could open new opportunities for renewable energy developers, investors and contractors.
"For developers, it is a chance that they can invest in these projects and generate revenue. For companies like Nafath, it provides opportunities to construct and support the growth of renewable energy infrastructure in Oman," he said.
Al Jabri added that community solar projects could also create employment opportunities for Omani engineers and technical specialists, supporting efforts to develop national talent for future energy industries.
According to APSR, the programme is based on a partnership model involving government entities, private-sector companies and local communities, with the aim of ensuring broader participation in the country's clean energy transition.
"The programme also represents an important opportunity to stimulate investment in the renewable energy sector, strengthen local content, empower national companies and create high-quality employment opportunities for Omani talent," Dr Al Hinai said.
The programme aligns with Oman Vision 2040 objectives related to sustainability, economic diversification and energy security. Officials said community solar projects would allow consumers to benefit from renewable energy without the need to install rooftop solar systems, making clean power more accessible to a wider segment of society.
The initiative is being implemented in cooperation with Nama Power and Water Procurement, Nama Electricity Distribution, Nama Dhofar Services and Nama Supply, with additional projects expected to be rolled out across the Sultanate of Oman in the coming years.
The launch comes as Oman accelerates efforts to diversify its energy mix and expand renewable generation capacity, positioning community-based solar projects as a new component of the country's long-term strategy for sustainable economic growth and energy security.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
