#Oman #Muscat #EDF Power Solutions #JBB Wind Project #Oman Energy

Major Development in Oman's Clean Energy Sector

In a significant move for clean energy in Oman, a consortium led by EDF Power Solutions, alongside Al Khadra Partners and OQ Alternative Energy (OQAE), has officially signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Nama Power and Water Procurement Company. This agreement initiates the development of the 120 MW Jaalan Bani Bu Ali (JBB) Wind Power Project. The project is projected to commence supplying low-carbon electricity to the Omani national grid by the third quarter of 2027.

The JBB Wind Project is strategically located in the Ash Sharqiyah South Governorate, approximately 440 kilometers from the Port of Duqm, covering an expansive area of 10.7 square kilometers. It will feature 16 wind turbines with a capacity of 7.7 MW each. The initiative is expected to reach the financial closure by 2026 and marks a pivotal step towards supporting Oman’s energy transition and broader climate goals in the Middle East.

Upon completion, the JBB Wind Farm will be capable of producing enough renewable energy to power approximately 13,500 Omani households and will aid in averting over 270,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. This not only contributes significantly to Oman’s climate change mitigation strategies but also promises job creation and skill-sharing with the local community.

During the signing ceremony, His Excellency Engineer Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Oman’s Minister of Energy and Minerals, expressed the government's enthusiasm about advancing the JBB Wind Power Project. He highlighted it as a landmark venture within the Sultanate's dedication to fortifying its renewable energy framework and aligning with the Oman Vision 2040 and net-zero targets by 2050.

“Wilayat Jaalan Bani Bu Ali has been chosen for this crucial project, which stands as one of the country’s most significant advancements in wind energy. This reflects Oman’s strategic direction towards a sustainable energy system and efficient resource use,” stated Al Aufi.

The Minister also emphasized that this project signifies Oman’s ambition to generate 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, thereby appealing to quality investments that can bolster sustainable development and resonate positively on the environment, economy, and society as a whole.

The CEO of Nama Power and Water Procurement, Mr. Ahmed bin Salim Al Abri, underscored the project's substantial role in transitioning to clean energy, boasting an annual energy generation capacity of around 352,380 MWh. The venture aims to free up about 67 million cubic meters of natural gas annually. Furthermore, it focuses on enhancing local resources by creating opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and promoting national economic growth through an In-Country Value (ICV) program that allocates part of the work to Omani companies.

Olivier Bordes, Managing Director of EDF Power Solutions Middle East, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, noting it as their second renewable project and first wind initiative in Oman. This partnership emphasizes their firm commitment to contributing to Oman’s decarbonization efforts and diverse energy mix.

Sheikha Hind Bahwan, Chair of Al Khadra Partners, expressed pride in collaborating with EDF and OQAE on this landmark project, reaffirming their collective dedication to advancing clean energy and supporting Oman’s long-term sustainability vision. The successful execution of this project will not only cement Oman’s leadership in energy transition but also deliver enduring social, economic, and environmental benefits.

Eng. Ghalib Al Maamari, Acting CEO of OQAE, outlined that this initiative represents a continued effort to enhance Oman’s stature in the clean energy landscape, consolidating partnerships with international and local entities to provide reliable, emissions-free energy.

As one of the largest onshore wind farms emerging in Oman, the JBB Wind Project is set to play a critical role in the Sultanate’s renewable energy agenda, ultimately paving the path to achieving a minimum of 30% renewable energy in the energy mix by 2030.

Conclusion

This project stands as a testament to Oman's commitment to a sustainable energy future. By combining local expertise with international knowledge, it represents a significant step forward in the region's clean energy endeavors, enhancing energy security and economic diversification while addressing critical climate goals.