What is Renewable Energy in Oman? | Oman Explained

Definition

Renewable energy encompasses electricity and heat generated from naturally replenishing sources including solar radiation, wind, hydropower, geothermal heat, and biomass. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energy sources produce little or no greenhouse gas emissions during operation and are considered essential for mitigating climate change. For sun-rich countries like Oman, solar photovoltaic and concentrated solar power represent the most abundant renewable resources.

Context in Oman

Oman receives some of the highest solar irradiance levels globally, with direct normal irradiance exceeding 2,000 kilowatt-hours per square metre across most of the country. Wind resources are also strong, particularly in the southern Dhofar region during the Khareef monsoon season and in the central desert. The Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR) and the Ministry of Energy and Minerals oversee renewable energy policy. Flagship projects include the 500 MW Ibri II solar plant (operational since 2022), the Manah solar projects, and planned wind farms in Dhofar. The Oman National Energy Strategy targets 20 percent of electricity generation from renewables by 2030 and 35 to 39 percent by 2040.

Key Data Points

Vision 2040 Connection

Renewable energy is a dual-purpose pillar of Vision 2040: it supports both environmental sustainability goals and economic diversification. Solar and wind development creates construction and operations jobs, attracts FDI, and positions Oman as a credible green energy exporter through green hydrogen and green ammonia. Vision 2040 treats energy transition as an opportunity rather than a threat to an oil-producing economy.

Further Reading

• [[What is Green Hydrogen]]
• [[What is Carbon Neutrality]]
• [[What is Vision 2040]]