GS Inima has signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for the Barka 5 Photovoltaic (PV) Plant in Oman, which will have an installed capacity of 6.5 megawatts peak (MWp). The plant is expected to supply approximately 11% of the electricity required by the Barka 5 desalination facility until June 2044. Construction is slated for completion by the first quarter of 2026.
The project was developed by GS Inima in partnership with Nama Power and Water Procurement Company (NPWP) and other government entities. The PV plant is designed to reduce the environmental impact of desalination by utilizing renewable energy sources.
Oman is making significant strides in renewable energy across various sectors. Among its notable projects is the Ibri II Solar Power Plant, one of the country’s largest solar installations with a capacity of 500 MW, which supplies electricity to the national grid. Additionally, the Amin Solar Plant, with a capacity of 100 MW, powers operations for Petroleum Development Oman (PDO).
Beyond large-scale projects, Oman is also implementing smaller renewable energy initiatives. For instance, Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has installed solar panels on campus, generating 2 MW of electricity for its educational facilities. The Royal Oman Police has deployed solar-powered streetlights in remote areas to enhance energy efficiency.
The Ministry of Education has introduced solar energy in several public schools across Al Batinah and Dhofar, installing small-scale solar systems to reduce dependence on the main grid.
In the water sector, the Oman Water and Wastewater Services Company (OWWSC) is piloting floating solar panels at reservoirs. A pilot project at Wadi Dayqah Dam, with an initial capacity of 5 MW, aims to reduce water evaporation while generating electricity.
The Oman Airports Management Company has also integrated solar energy into its operations. Muscat International Airport has installed rooftop solar panels to contribute to the power needs of its facilities.
These initiatives underscore Oman’s commitment to diversifying its energy sources and promoting sustainability across multiple sectors.
Source: saurenergy.me
