French energy conglomerate TotalEnergies has officially unveiled a 17-MWp solar park in Oman, marking a significant stride in the nation's sustainable energy landscape. The solar facility is strategically designed to supply power to a water desalination plant located in the northeastern region of the Sultanate.
The inauguration of the solar farm, held in the presence of Oman's energy minister, Salim Al Aufi, underscores the commitment to fostering renewable energy solutions in the region. This solar park, situated on the grounds of the Sharqiyah Desalination plant in the coastal city of Sur, is poised to be a pivotal contributor to Oman's energy diversification.
The solar facility is anticipated to generate approximately 32,000 MWh of clean electricity annually. This energy output will be dedicated to covering 100% of the power requirements of the water desalination plant during daylight hours.
The desalination plant itself is an essential component of Oman's infrastructure, boasting a remarkable capacity to process nearly 132,000 cubic meters of water daily. It serves the needs of approximately 600,000 people in the Sharqiyah region of Oman, playing a crucial role in preserving the nation's precious groundwater resources.
TotalEnergies' foray into renewable energy in Oman represents its first such initiative in the country and is the outcome of a collaboration with the renowned French company, Veolia. The project aligns seamlessly with Oman's National Energy Strategy, a roadmap aimed at transitioning 30% of the nation's electricity consumption to renewable sources by the year 2030.