Latest news with #be'ah
Muscat Daily
05-08-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Nama PWP launches RFQ tender for Oman's first waste-to-energy project
Muscat – As part of Oman's strategic direction towards sustainable waste management and the adoption of clean energy solutions, Nama Power and Water Procurement Company (Nama PWP) – the sole procurer of the sultanate's power generation and water production capacities – has announced the commencement of the Request for Qualification (RFQ) process for the country's first utility-scale Waste-to-Energy (WTE) Project, located in Barka. With a projected capacity of 95–100MW and a scheduled commercial operation date expected in the second quarter of 2031, the WTE Project marks a major milestone in fuel diversification within the electricity sector. The project is being developed under the leadership of Nama PWP, as nominated by the Authority for Public Services Regulation, in close collaboration with Oman Environmental Services Holding Company (be'ah). This landmark initiative supports Oman's national objectives to reduce, treat and manage waste volumes effectively, while transitioning towards a low-carbon economy. The WTE Project is expected to contribute approximately 760GWh of renewable energy annually, starting in 2031, further strengthening the sultanate's commitment to its Net Zero targets. Nama PWP has invited qualified and experienced entities to submit their statements of qualification for participation in this transformative project. The launch of the RFQ tender marks a crucial step in delivering innovative, clean and efficient power solutions that contribute to a greener and more resilient energy future for communities across Oman. 'The Waste-to-Energy Project represents a strategic leap towards achieving Oman's vision for sustainable energy and responsible waste management,' said Ahmed bin Salim al Abri, CEO of Nama PWP. 'We are proud to lead this pioneering initiative in collaboration with be'ah and the Authority for Public Services Regulation. This project not only supports our national Net Zero ambitions, but also reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative and resilient power solutions for the future of the Sultanate of Oman,' he added. Abdullah Rashid al Sawafi, Chief Energy Transition Officer at Nama PWP, said, 'The Waste-to-Energy Project is a landmark initiative in Oman's transition towards a more diversified and sustainable energy mix.' He explained that by utilising advanced thermal conversion technologies, the project would enable the safe and efficient processing of municipal solid waste into reliable baseload electricity. This would not only significantly reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills, but also play a critical role in decarbonising the power sector. 'From a grid operations standpoint, introducing a stable and dispatchable energy source will enhance system reliability and support the broader integration of variable renewable resources such as solar and wind. This project exemplifies our commitment to pioneering environmentally responsible solutions that contribute meaningfully to Oman's Net Zero aspirations and its shift towards a circular economy,' Sawafi added.
Observer
12-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Circular economy and local added value in Oman
The Sultanate of Oman is now in full acceptance of the circular economy concept which is known as a restorative and regenerative system which looks at waste as a potential resource. This shift is reflective of the Oman Vision 2040, which is the country's holistic development plan focusing on economic diversification, sustainability, human capital development, education, social equality, innovation, and a healthy environment. The circular economy is supportive of these objectives by transforming waste into business opportunities that bolster the economy while creating domestic jobs, conserving resources, and mitigating environmental damage. Oman's circular economy initiatives are already yielding some local results which include, amongst others, more than 2300 direct jobs. These initiatives include Waste-to-Energy projects, PET recycling, water reuse, and SME participation. Also observed are the import substitution of recycled materials, the development of innovation ecosystems, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The circular model is thus not only an environmental imperative, but a key driver of local value creation. This paper adds to the discussion of Oman's circular economy which is still emerging, the key national institutions such as be'ah, the flagship infrastructure and recycling projects, and their role in local value creation aligned with Vision 2040. OMAN'S STRATEGIC FOUNDATIONS FOR CIRCULARITY The Oman Vision 2040 focuses on transitioning the Sultanate into a diversified, sustainable, knowledge-driven economy. It fosters private-sector leadership while enhances human capital and economic conserves environmental diversifies. The circular economy provides a practical framework to advance all these pillars in parallel. The government has established a National Local Content Policy (2024–2030) which focuses on increasing the in-country value for all economic activities. The policy aligns well with circularity as it promotes local supply chains, prefers SMEs for government contracts and encourages sourcing of materials and services domestically. The rest of the regions industrialized zones (Suhar, Duqm, Salalah, and Al Mazunah) strategically positioned to integrate recycling, repurposing, and green manufacturing. Along with ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) frameworks introduced by the Oman Investment Authority, there is strong institutional support for a circular transition. Geographic and demographic Oman unique characteristics also offer advantages. The arid land, abundant solar radiation, and young, educated people are well positioned to innovate in water reuse, renewable energy, composting, and low-waste agriculture. INFRASTRUCTURE & INSTITUTIONAL SYSTEMS Oman is one of few countries leading investments towards circular economy infrastructure. The most prominent example is be'ah – Oman Environmental Services Holding Company – responsible for the solid waste management system of the country. Be'ah's mandate also focuses on lowering waste generation, increasing recycling and reuse, and reduced reliance on landfills. Currently, be'ah oversees more than 10 operated engineered landfills that include the major facilities in Barka and Suhar. The hazardous waste treatment plant in Suhar is one of the largest in the region petrochemical and industrial clusters in the north. In addition, there is a waste-to-energy plant in Barka that is under construction which is expected to process 4,500 tons of municipal solid waste daily and provide electricity to the national grid. In partnership with Sultan Qaboos University, a pilot biogas plant has been started with the treatment of organic waste from households and farms. Such initiatives not only provide clean energy but also promote technological and workforce innovations. Another crucial component is treated wastewater. Oman reused about 51 percent out of 96 million cubic meters of treated wastewater in 2023, particularly in industrial and agricultural sectors. This substitution also reduced CO₂ emissions by almost 291,000 tonnes. Oman is also working on expansion plans that will increase the tertiary treatment of water to one million cubic meters daily by 2040. ASPECTS OF VALUE ADDED WITHIN THE COUNTRY Oman's initiatives within circular economies highlights the added value as a combination of several factors: Employment Opportunities: More than 2,300 jobs in recycling, sorting, composting, and logistics have been created by be'ah. Other sectors benefiting include Transport, Repair, Technology, and Facility Management due to the multiplied effect. Empowerment of Small to Medium Enterprises: Oman's Local Content Policy allows contracts below RO 25,000 to be awarded to local SMEs, thus stimulating waste management businesses including collection, composting, plastics processing, and electronics refurbishment. Reduction of Foreign Imports: The locally produced recycled PET, crumb rubber, and steel sourced from e-waste contributes to lowering foreign sourced materials. Compost cuts down on the use of chemical fertilizers. Technology and Innovation: Oman is incorporating innovation into its circular economy through AI-driven recycling facilities and advanced water reuse technologies. Green startups are being supported at centers like Innovation Park Muscat and Sultan Qaboos University. Environmental Gains: Healthcare benefits alongside reduced emissions from water reuse and landfill diversion are significant. Through treated wastewater reuse, 291,000 tons of CO₂ emissions were mitigated in 2023, showing impressive progress. Economic Resilience: Oman's self-reliant and economically secure structure is strengthened by local sourcing as it buffers the economy from international supply chain disruptions. CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS There are clearly defined environmental rationales, but also strategic economic drivers behind Oman's transition towards a circular economy. With the right policies and innovative ideas coupled with strong institutional frameworks and local entrepreneurship focused on infrastructure, Oman can convert waste into a strategic resource for building a sustainable and resilient economy. The key recommendations are outlined below 1. Establish overarching EPR policy framework with defined recycling quotas. 2. Stimulate public sector demand for recycled materials as expressed through public procurement mandates. 3. Enhance allocation and support to green SMEs and innovation centers. 4. Enhance waste segregation and participation at the community level. 5. Consider circular economy frameworks in national infrastructure projects. Oman is transitioning towards circularity based on Vision 2040 which targets the Sultanate's position as a regional leader in sustainable development and value creation.
Zawya
24-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GreenUp 2027 strategy to boost sustainable infrastructure in Oman
MUSCAT: Veolia, a global leader in environmental solutions, has rolled out its GreenUp 2027 strategic programme in Oman, showcasing three major projects that embody the company's commitment to sustainable development and innovation in waste, water, and energy management. The initiative strengthens Veolia's position as a key player in supporting Oman's Vision 2040 and the Sultanate of Oman's broader shift towards a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy. PIONEERING BIOGAS-TO-ENERGY FROM LANDFILLS At the core of Veolia's waste management strategy is the transformation of the Barka and Al Multaqa landfills into advanced facilities featuring biogas-to-energy systems—the first of their kind in the Gulf. The Barka landfill, the largest in Oman, receives close to 1 million tonnes of municipal waste annually, while Al Multaqa processes around 380,000 tonnes. Over the past decade, Veolia has managed these sites for Oman Environmental Services Holding (be'ah), ensuring high environmental standards through leachate treatment, daily cover, and biogas collection for flaring. Under the GreenUp 2027 programme, these sites are now being equipped to capture and convert landfill gas into 1.08 MW of renewable energy, enough to partially power local operations. By reaching a compaction rate of 1 ton per cubic metre, Veolia maximises landfill capacity while cutting greenhouse gas emissions. The contract includes engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) and operations and maintenance (O&M) services, initially set for two years and subject to extension. A workforce of 32 staff supports the project. RIMA WETLANDS: A NATURE-BASED OILFIELD WASTEWATER SOLUTION In partnership with Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), Veolia is spearheading one of the region's most innovative wastewater treatment projects at the Rima oilfield in southern Oman. Spread across 25 km², the Rima Wetlands use natural wetlands integrated with physical and biological treatment processes to handle 66,000 cubic metres of oily produced water daily. This solution not only lowers operational costs but also reduces CO₂ emissions by 48,000 tonnes per year, compared to traditional disposal methods. Operational since 2022 and now at 71% utilisation, the 20-year Design-Build-Own-Operate (DBOO) project is also creating a thriving wildlife habitat, highlighting the project's broader environmental impact. The Rima Wetlands are manned by a dedicated team of 17 staff. SOLAR-POWERED WATER SECURITY IN SUR Water sustainability forms another pillar of GreenUp 2027. In the eastern city of Sur, Veolia operates one of the Sultanate's most vital water infrastructure assets — the Sur Desalination Plant, which integrates one of Oman's largest solar farms dedicated to water production. The plant supplies over 600,000 residents in the Sharqiyah region and is contracted under a 27-year Build-Own-Operate agreement with Nama Power and Water Procurement Company. Since becoming operational in 2007, the plant has produced more than 400 million cubic metres of potable water, powered increasingly by renewable sources. The facility boasts advanced reverse osmosis (RO) technology, including smart membranes and Veolia's proprietary Barrel Pilot system, which boosts energy efficiency. Its high operational reliability (82% uptime) and international certifications (ISO 9001, 14001, 5001 and OHSAS 18001) underscore its strategic importance in meeting Oman's water security and clean energy goals. Veolia's GreenUp 2027 strategy dovetails with Oman's Vision 2040 and the National Energy Strategy, which targets 30% renewable energy by 2030. Each of the three cornerstone projects not only meets immediate service demands but also helps build circular economy models and climate resilience across key sectors. By leveraging innovation in environmental engineering and long-term partnerships with public entities like be'ah, PDO, and Nama, Veolia is positioning itself as a catalyst for Oman's green transition. Through GreenUp 2027, the company reaffirms its global mission: to resource the world — and in Oman's case, to do so sustainably and strategically.
Muscat Daily
09-06-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
be'ah, OQ sign deal for biogas project
Muscat – Oman Environmental Services Holding Company (be'ah) and OQ Trading have signed a cooperation agreement to develop a national project focused on producing biogas (biomethane) and bio-carbon dioxide by processing organic waste from landfills and future biofacilities managed by be'ah. This collaboration aims to turn environmental challenges into promising economic opportunities by utilising approximately 20mn cubic metres of biogas extracted from these sites – comprising around 40% biomethane (a renewable fuel) and 60% bio-CO₂ for sustainable industrial applications. The agreement sets out a roadmap for conducting technical and economic feasibility studies, infrastructure assessments, and exploring commercial marketing opportunities for the project's outputs. It also aims to create attractive local investment prospects aligned with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. Both companies highlighted that this partnership represents an integrated national collaboration between the energy and environmental sectors. It combines be'ah's expertise in waste and resource management with OQ Trading's global energy capabilities to reinforce Oman's position as a regional hub for clean energy. Eng Tariq Ali al Amri, CEO of be'ah, stated that the project marks a new milestone in energy recovery from organic waste through sustainable methods – converting environmental challenges into developmental and economic opportunities. He noted that biogas and bio-CO₂ production would reduce emissions, support Oman's net-zero goals, enhance waste management efficiency, and provide alternative energy sources. Said Talib al Maawali, Executive Director for the Middle East at OQ Trading, described the project as an attractive opportunity to diversify Oman's energy mix in line with the 2050 carbon neutrality targets and global trends towards sustainable, low-carbon energy solutions. He regarded the initiative as a strategic nucleus that will stimulate further investment in waste-to-energy initiatives and strengthen clean energy value chains. ONA
Muscat Daily
04-06-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Pact inked to develop biogas project from organic waste
Muscat – Oman Environmental Services Holding Company (be'ah) and OQ Trading have signed a cooperation agreement to jointly develop a national project focused on the production of biogas (biomethane) and bio-carbon dioxide from organic waste at landfills and future biofacilities managed by be'ah. The strategic partnership aims to transform environmental challenges into promising economic opportunities by harnessing approximately 20 million cubic metres of biogas extracted from be'ah-managed sites. The biogas is expected to comprise about 40% biomethane – a renewable fuel – and 60% bio-CO₂, both of which can be used in various sustainable industrial applications. Under the agreement, the two entities will work on a roadmap that includes technical and economic feasibility studies, infrastructure assessments, and identification of commercial marketing opportunities for the project's outputs. The initiative is expected to create local investment opportunities in line with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. Both companies affirmed that the collaboration represents an integrated model of national cooperation between the energy and environmental sectors. It brings together be'ah's expertise in waste and resource management with OQ Trading's global energy capabilities, strengthening Oman's position as a regional clean energy hub. Engineer Tariq Ali Al Amri, CEO of be'ah, described the project as a new milestone in energy recovery from organic waste through sustainable technologies. 'This initiative demonstrates how environmental challenges can be turned into developmental and economic opportunities. The production of biogas and bio-CO₂ will contribute to reducing emissions, improving waste management efficiency, and providing alternative energy sources,' he said. Said Talib Al Maawali, Executive Director for the Middle East at OQ Trading, called the project an attractive opportunity to diversify Oman's energy mix in support of the sultanate's carbon neutrality goals by 2050. 'This is a strategic nucleus for future waste-to-energy projects and will enhance clean energy value chains across the country,' he added. The project reflects Oman's broader commitment to sustainable development and low-carbon energy solutions in line with global trends and national objectives.
