Oman Inaugurates Major Solar Park for Desalination

The recent inauguration of a 17-megawatt (MW) solar park in Sur, Oman, marks an important milestone in the sultanate’s energy transition efforts. Developed jointly with TotalEnergies and Veolia, the project’s main aim is to supply the Sharqiyah desalination plant, a significant step towards decarbonization and water security in the region.

Environmental impact and decarbonization targets

The solar park, with an annual capacity of over 32,000 megawatt-hours (MWh), is a striking example of Oman’s commitment to renewable energies. With construction work begun the previous year and trials carried out from March to April, the park became commercially operational the same month. However, Engineer Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Oman’s Minister of Energy and Mines, stressed the significant environmental impact of the facility. By reducing CO2 emissions by 27,200 tonnes a year, equivalent to the emissions of 6,000 internal combustion vehicles, the fleet is making a major contribution to decarbonization efforts.

Contribution to Water Security and Alignment with Vision 2040

At the inauguration, Al Aufi highlighted the project’s crucial role in providing drinking water to over 600,000 residents of the Sharqiyah region. He also emphasized the project’s alignment with global initiatives to transition to a net zero emissions world, and its contribution to water security in Oman. In line with the national energy strategy, the project aims to produce 30% of Oman’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030, as part of the sultanate’s Vision 2040.

The role of Veolia and TotalEnergies in the Energy Transition

Philippe Bourdeaux, Veolia’s Vice President for Africa, Near & Middle East, praised the commitment of the sultanate and its private partners to energy transition and decarbonization. In addition, with over 40 years’ experience in the Middle East, including 15 years in Oman, Veolia has played a key role in implementing sustainable solutions. Bourdeaux emphasized the strategic importance of Oman for Veolia’s regional operations, affirming their commitment to ecological transformation and the reduction of carbon emissions.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior executives from Veolia and TotalEnergies, as well as government officials and representatives from Sharqiyah Desalination Company and Nama Power and Water Procurement Company (NPWP), testifying to the fruitful collaboration between the public and private sectors.

The inauguration of the Sur solar park illustrates Oman’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainability. By reducing CO2 emissions and ensuring water security, this project marks a decisive step towards the sultanate’s Vision 2040, while highlighting the vital role of public-private partnerships in achieving environmental goals.