Muscat governorate in Oman is making significant strides towards achieving its renewable energy goals. With a target of generating 20 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2040, Muscat is aligning itself with the objectives set forth in Oman Vision 2040 and the National Energy Strategy.
In 2022, the governorate witnessed a remarkable increase of 31.5 percent in electricity production from renewables compared to the previous year. Buoyed by this progress, Muscat has set an even more ambitious target, aiming for a 118.5 percent increase in renewable energy production this year.
One notable area of growth is the number of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects. The governorate experienced a 70 percent rise, with the number of projects increasing from 70 in 2021 to 114 in 2022. This surge demonstrates the growing interest and commitment to renewable energy in the region.
Muscat Electricity Distribution Company (MEDC), the sole entity responsible for electricity distribution in the governorate, has affirmed its dedication to supporting the renewable energy targets. In its 2022 Annual Report, MEDC stated that it remains committed to fulfilling its scope and regulatory obligations in order to contribute to the achievement of these targets.
Salman Ali al Hattali, the Acting CEO of MEDC, provided further insight into their progress. He stated, “We have connected 41 solar PV systems with a DC capacity of 2,276.07 kW compared to 27 last year. The total number of solar PV systems now stands at 114, with a combined production capacity of 9,201 kW.” These figures indicate significant growth and highlight the increasing role of solar energy in the governorate's electricity generation.
To encourage widespread adoption of renewable energy among industrial and residential customers, the Authority for Public Service Regulations (APSR) introduced a scheme called SAHIM I in 2017. This initiative aims to promote the installation of solar PV systems and the utilization of clean energy. APSR, along with distribution companies like MEDC, actively supports the installation of solar PV panels to help meet the renewable energy targets.
MEDC plays a pivotal role in facilitating and assisting individuals and institutions interested in connecting their solar PV installations to MEDC's network for electricity production. Since the inception of the Renewable Energy Implementation program in 2017, MEDC has received a total of 225 applications for solar PV connections. As of 2022, more than 50 percent of these projects have progressed towards implementation. MEDC anticipates connecting a total generation capacity of 20,112 kW to its network by the end of 2023.
MEDC is currently collaborating with PDO and Hussam Technology Company to commission projects and supply solar energy to 65 residential systems across Muscat. Currently, nine systems have been approved, energized, and connected to MEDC's network, while 35 solar PV projects are in the initial stage and 21 are in the design stage. These collaborations signify the concerted efforts being made to expand the use of solar energy in the governorate.
As Muscat governorate continues to prioritize renewable energy, its commitment to sustainable development remains unwavering. The progress made so far and the ambitious targets set for the future indicate a promising journey towards a greener and more sustainable energy landscape in Oman's capital region.
