In 2025, Oman is accelerating its renewable energy transition program, with the 500 MW Ibri III solar project in the spotlight. With major energy companies submitting bids, the project is expected to make headlines in the energy sector, breathing new life into Oman's power supply.

Oman's Nama Power and Water Procurement Company (PWP), the sole buyer of all independent power projects in the Sultanate, has received bids from four consortia to participate in the development of the Iburi III solar project. The consortium includes a consortium of ABU Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar), South Korea's Midland Power Company (KOMIPO) and Al Khadra Partners, as well as a team from ACWA Power and TotalEnergies Renewables, There is also a joint team between EDF Renewables and Korea West Electric Power Company (KOWEPO). In addition, Sembcorp Utilities has also submitted their proposal. Since the tender process was launched in January 2024, a total of 12 bids were attracted, of which nine were shortlisted and went on to submit detailed proposals. The project is expected to cost 155 million OMani Riyals (about $402.6 million) and is scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of 2027 near the 500 MW Ibri II solar project, which is already in operation.

The Iburi III solar project is an important part of Oman's vision to expand its renewable energy capacity. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Oman has installed about 672 MW of solar capacity by the end of 2023. Last year, Sembcorp Utilities completed construction and began commercial operations at a 588-megawatt solar power plant in northeast Oman more than four months ahead of schedule, an achievement that further solidifies Oman's commitment to renewable energy. The Omani government's forward-looking energy strategy includes a target to add around 4 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with the aim of diversifying the energy mix and sustainably meeting growing domestic and regional demand.

These developments not only represent the strength of Oman's investment in the renewable energy sector, but also indicate the potential to create jobs in the local economy. The strong development of solar projects will stabilize and reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources, bringing significant environmental and economic benefits to Oman. The outcome of the tender for the Iburi III solar project will be closely watched by industry stakeholders as it plays a key role in shaping Oman's energy future. Regardless of which consortium ultimately wins, the project will mark an important step in Oman's shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly energy production. Editor/Xu Shengpeng