Latest news with #SalimbinNasseralAufi
Observer
3 days ago
- Business
- Observer
Oman's first renewable energy storage project imminent
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman is making significant efforts to implement green energy projects, as "Oman Vision 2040" aims for these projects to contribute nearly 30 per cent of the country's total electricity generation by 2030. Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, revealed that five to six new renewable energy projects — focused on wind and solar power — will commence this year, with particular emphasis on wind energy due to Oman's strong potential in this sector. Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals Al Aufi noted that these projects will be located in various sites where wind energy has been measured, mostly in the Al Wusta and Dhofar governorates. They are expected to begin production by the end of 2027, generating over 2,000 megawatts. He affirmed that the Ministry of Energy and Minerals is collaborating with its partners in Nama Group and the Authority for Public Services Regulation to explore the best methods for storing renewable energy, whether through conventional or innovative approaches applicable in Oman. He also confirmed that an announcement regarding Oman's first renewable energy storage project will be made soon. The minister added that these projects will strengthen Oman's transition to renewable energy while creating vast opportunities for industries reliant on clean and sustainable power. He highlighted that Oman has already launched the "Manah 1" and "Manah 2" renewable energy plants, with a combined capacity of around 1,000 megawatts. Initial results indicate that each plant is producing over 500 megawatts, exceeding expectations. Furthermore, he explained that the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology; and Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) are working to establish a hydrogen pathway by setting up production and supply stations within concession areas. This initiative aims to use hydrogen as fuel for trucks operating between these zones. — ONA
Observer
6 days ago
- Business
- Observer
Oman-Yemen power grid interconnection under study
MUSCAT: Well-known international energy sector engineering services consultancy firm Monenco has announced that it has secured a contract from Omani authorities to study the feasibility of interconnecting the power grids of Oman and Yemen. The client is Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC), the majority state-owner and operator of the Sultanate's national grid. OETC – part of Nama Group – also manages interconnectivity with the grids of neighbouring countries via the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), a joint initiative by member states of the GCC to support electricity exchanges. 'We're proud to announce that Monenco Oman has been awarded the highly strategic Oman–Yemen Power Grid Interconnection Project by Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC) under Tender No. 15/2025,' Monenco noted in a recent post. 'Monenco will be responsible for delivering the feasibility study, engineering services, and full supervision during implementation up to successful energization. This project is a major step toward enhancing energy security and fostering regional power connectivity across the Arabian Peninsula and the wider GCC region,' the company further added. The initiative aligns with an ongoing bid by Oman to explore grid interconnectivity with all of its neighbours with which it shares a land border, as well as with Iran across the Strait of Hormuz. On Tuesday, the Sultanate signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Iran to review a feasibility study of a grid interconnection project between the two countries. The MoU was among 18 cooperation pacts inked by the two countries during the official visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Muscat. Signing on behalf of Oman was Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, while Iran was represented by Seyed Mohammad Atabak, Minister of Industry, Mining, and Trade. Meanwhile, linkages between Oman and the GCCIA network continue to expand and strengthen. According to OETC, a new 400kV direct transmission line between Oman and the GCCIA network is currently in the design stage. 'This new line will establish a vital link between the OETC Ibri IPP and the Silaa grid stations (in the UAE), with the project scheduled for completion in Q1 2027. The interconnection will enhance the reliability and resilience of the transmission system by increasing the total transfer capacity between Oman and the GCCIA networks to 1,700MW, strengthening regional grid integration, supporting the energy transition and improving energy security,' OETC affirmed in its recently published Transmission Capability Statement. As part of the new direct link GCCIA will build and own a new 400kV grid station at Ibri, not far from the existing Ibri IPP grid station. This new Ibri GCCIA 400kV grid station will be connected to the Silaa 400kV grid station owned by GCCIA with total overhead-line length of about 528 km (88.2 km from Ibri GCCIA 400kV to the border and 470 km from the border to Silaa and introducing a middle point station at UAE). Importantly, the new direct link builds on an existing interconnection between Oman and the GCCIA network, which has been operational since November 2011. It connects Mahadha grid station at Al Wasit in Oman with the Al Oha grid station at Al Ain in the UAE. In 2024, Oman exported 775,637.38 megawatt-hours (MWh) and imported 63,948.41 MWh through the existing GCCIA interconnection, 'reflecting a robust interconnection and mutual support within the region's energy sector,' OETC remarked.
Observer
27-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman launches national company to regulate mineral exports and boost revenues
MUSCAT: In a significant move to optimise the economic potential of its mineral wealth, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals has announced the establishment of Oman Minerals Trading Company as the central authority to oversee the marketing and export of mineral resources from the Sultanate of Oman. The initiative is formalised through Ministerial Resolution No 18/2025, issued by Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals. The resolution marks a key step in reforming the mineral management system and aligns with Oman Vision 2040's goal of sustainable, diversified economic growth. It aims to address existing structural challenges in the mineral sector — such as fragmented marketing, price instability and the dominance of intermediaries — by centralising export control under a national entity. KEY PROVISIONS FOR TRANSPARENCY AND MARKET STABILITY Under the new regulation, gypsum and chrome ore exports will be strictly monitored. Export of raw chrome ore will require a minimum concentration of 36%, while processed ore can be exported at any concentration upon Ministry approval. Local market needs will be prioritised before exports are approved, a policy that supports domestic manufacturing and ensures stability in local supply chains. The regulation also seeks to standardise contracts, enhance negotiation leverage with international buyers and improve pricing transparency for Omani ores — factors that have historically impacted competitiveness despite strong production levels. In 2024 alone, Oman produced about 14 million tons of gypsum across 15 licensed sites and 300,000 tonnes of chrome ore from 29 licensees. However, revenue gains have been diluted by inconsistent marketing and a lack of pricing discipline. STRATEGIC ROLE OF OMAN MINERALS TRADING COMPANY As a subsidiary of Minerals Development Oman, the new trading firm will manage exports, unify contract terms, enforce quality specifications and negotiate international sales. This professionalised approach is expected to lift the average price of Omani minerals and boost national income. Dr Salah bin Hafiz al Dhahab, Director General of Investments at the Ministry, described the move as a 'pivotal milestone,' adding that it enables the government to streamline the export process, reduce price manipulation and better monitor sectoral returns. The decision is also designed to: a. Improve the efficiency of logistics and export operations. b. Increase transparency and curb rent-seeking behaviour. c. Support SMEs involved in supply chains. d. Create more jobs and promote local content through in-country value (ICV) initiatives. The resolution falls under the Ministry's broader 'Majd' initiative, which aims to evaluate and enhance local content across the energy and minerals sectors. Companies will be required to submit ICV plans and support domestic manufacturing activities that add value to raw mineral exports. ONE-YEAR TRANSITION PERIOD To ensure a smooth shift, a one-year transitional period has been granted. During this time, companies can conclude existing contracts and adapt to the new system. The Ministry also plans to conduct orientation and training workshops to support stakeholders and build internal capacity. Dr Al Dhahab emphasised that the transformation reflects the Ministry's broader institutional reform following the merger of energy and minerals portfolios. 'With clearer policies, enhanced geological databases and improved investor privileges, we are creating a transparent and regulated business environment that meets the goals of Oman Vision 2040,' he noted. By streamlining mineral exports and empowering a centralised entity, Oman aims to attract more reliable investments, strengthen national industries and secure better returns from its abundant mineral resources.
Observer
19-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
HR forum empowers Oman's energy workforce
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Energy and Minerals has launched the inaugural Energy Sector Human Resources Forum, held under the auspices of Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals. Taking place from May 19–20, 2025, at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, the forum aims to reshape human capital development in the energy sector in alignment with Oman Vision 2040. DRIVING TRANSFORMATION THROUGH HUMAN CAPITAL Bringing together executive leaders, HR professionals, academics, and policymakers, the forum underscores the urgency of building an agile, future-ready workforce amid rapid changes in the global energy landscape. The event highlights Oman's efforts to promote economic diversification and empower its national workforce. In his opening speech, Eng Salim al Aufi emphasised the forum's role in fostering collaborative thinking and policy innovation. He stressed that empowering Omani talent, enhancing workplace well-being, and nurturing supportive environments are vital to boosting institutional performance and national competitiveness. He called on participants to reimagine HR strategies, strengthen academia-industry ties, and advance public-private cooperation. Held under the theme 'Strategic Human Resources in the Energy Sector,' the forum tackled four priority areas: 1. Leadership Resilience in navigating economic and technological disruption. 2. Innovative Omanization, bridging the gap between education and employment. 3. Future Skills, focusing on digital transformation and workforce upskilling. 4. Mental Health & Safety, promoting stability and productivity at work. The first day featured four interactive workshops facilitated by industry experts. These sessions encouraged participants to propose practical, actionable solutions to HR challenges, which will be reviewed for integration into sector-wide policies. THOUGHT LEADERSHIP AND ACADEMIA-INDUSTRY DIALOGUE A CEO panel headlined the first day, offering insights into labour market shifts, talent retention, and the impact of digitalisation on leadership models. On the second day, the forum hosted an academic session titled 'Integration of Knowledge and Energy', featuring top university leaders from Sultan Qaboos University, the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, and the German University of Technology in Oman. The session focused on aligning academic curricula with industry needs and fostering R&D partnerships to support energy innovation. Participants also joined expert-led knowledge exchange sessions exploring practical solutions to the forum's key themes. Attendees were awarded participation certificates, reinforcing the forum's emphasis on engagement and learning. STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND AGREEMENTS The forum also served as a platform for signing several high-impact agreements and MoUs aimed at advancing workforce development and sector innovation. Highlights included: PDO & SMEDA: Supporting SMEs in the solar energy sector through the Ishraq Programme. PDO, Oman LNG & Sur LNG: Enhancing talent mobility through a joint MoU on talent acquisition PDO & Takatuf: Providing advanced human capital services. Shell & Takatuf Petrofac Oman (TPO): Launching training programs for technical operators. OPAL & Oman Energy Institute: Developing clean energy training programmes. OPAL & TPO Centte: Expanding vocational training opportunities. MEM & Rihal: Creating a digital dashboard to monitor rig and jack-up contracts for greater transparency. A PLATFORM FOR SUSTAINABLE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT The forum concluded with a commitment to transforming dialogue into action. Recommendations and insights generated during the event will be submitted to the Ministry of Energy and Minerals to inform future policies and initiatives. As a cornerstone initiative, the Energy Sector Human Resources Forum marks the beginning of a structured, long-term approach to building a resilient, skilled, and competitive national workforce—paving the way for a more integrated, innovative, and sustainable energy future in Oman.
Observer
18-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Duqm project joins Oman's green energy framework
MUSCAT : Project development and usufruct agreements have been signed on May 18, Sunday, to integrate Phases 2 and 3 of a green hydrogen and ammonia project in Al Duqm into Oman's national hydrogen framework. The agreements, involving Hydrom (the orchestrator of Oman's green hydrogen industry), the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) and India-based ACME Group, mark the formal inclusion of one of the Sultanate of Oman's earliest hydrogen initiatives into Hydrom's unified national portfolio. The signing ceremony was attended by Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals and Chairman of Hydrom; Shaikh Dr Ali bin Masoud al Sunaidy, Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ); and Gursharan Jassal, ACME's Country Manager in Oman. The two new project phases will cover 80 square kilometres within the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) and are expected to each produce 71,000 tonnes of green hydrogen and 400,000 tonnes of green ammonia annually. This expansion builds on the ongoing construction of ACME's Phase 1, designed to produce 100,000 tonnes of green ammonia per year under an offtake agreement with Yara Birkeland AS. Once all three phases are complete, ACME aims to reach a total production capacity of 0.9 million tonnes of green ammonia annually. Eng Abdulaziz al Shaithani, Managing Director of Hydrom, stated: 'Integrating ACME's project into our national framework is a major milestone in Oman's green hydrogen journey. It strengthens investor confidence, streamlines development, and reinforces Oman's status as a serious global player in this emerging sector.' Hydrom's portfolio has now expanded to nine large-scale green hydrogen projects across Al Wusta and Dhofar governorates, with combined expected investments exceeding $50 billion and an annual production capacity target of 1.5 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030. These projects will be powered by approximately 35 GW of renewable energy and coordinated through a centralised strategy to ensure scalability and international competitiveness. Eng Ahmed bin Ali Akaak, CEO of SEZAD, highlighted Duqm's rising prominence as a green energy hub. He noted the zone's 2025–2030 strategy prioritises green hydrogen investments, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040 and the national goal of Net-Zero emissions by 2050. ACME's Country Manager Gursharan Jassal added: 'This agreement represents a major step toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for Oman. It reflects our shared ambition to support the country's long-term vision and global leadership in the green hydrogen economy.' The agreement comes as Hydrom progresses with its third land auction round, underscoring the Sultanate of Oman's accelerating hydrogen strategy. By integrating early-stage and new developments under one framework, Oman is building a complete green hydrogen value chain — from renewable resource development to infrastructure and export — offering investors and offtakers a stable, scalable, and future-ready ecosystem. This expansion builds on the ongoing construction of ACME's Phase 1, designed to produce 100,000 tonnes of green ammonia per year under an offtake agreement with Yara Birkeland AS.
