OQ Alternative Energy (OQAE) has achieved key construction milestones across its Riyah 1, Riyah 2, and North Oman Solar projects, which together will deliver 330 MW of renewable energy capacity once commissioned by the end of the year.
The projects, developed in partnership with TotalEnergies, represent a combined investment of over USD 230 million and are expected to supply clean electricity to the grid of Petroleum Development Oman (PDO).
Wind and Solar Capacity Expansion
The renewable portfolio includes the Riyah 1 and Riyah 2 wind farms, located at PDO’s Amin and West Nimr fields in southern Oman, and the North Oman Solar project at Saih Nahaydah in northern Oman.
Once operational, the projects will collectively add more than 330 MW of wind and solar generation capacity, supporting the country’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on natural gas.
Construction Progress
The North Oman Solar project has reached the final stages of mechanical completion, with 95% of tracker and photovoltaic (PV) module installation completed. Full PV module installation is expected to be finalized by mid-March 2026.
Meanwhile, significant progress has also been recorded at the wind projects. Seven wind turbines, each with a 200-meter tip height, have already been erected, with further installations underway. All 36 wind turbine generators required for the projects have arrived in Oman, and 19 units have already been transported from the port to the project sites. In addition, all turbine foundations have been completed, allowing installation activities to accelerate.
Record-Breaking Achievements
The projects have already set several national milestones, including the development of Oman’s largest wind farm and the transportation of the longest inland logistics convoy in the country’s history.
Strong Local Participation
OQAE reported that the projects have exceeded their in-country value (ICV) targets, achieving approximately 30% local content in procurement and project execution.
Several Omani companies have contributed to the development, including Voltamp, Oman Cables, Al Kiyumi Switchgear, and Al Hassan Switchgear, which supplied electrical equipment such as power transformation systems, cabling, and distribution boards. Engineering design for substations was carried out locally by Worley Oman, while logistics and customs operations for turbine components were managed by Khimji Ramdas.
Workforce Development
The projects have also exceeded expectations in workforce localisation, achieving 40% Omani workforce participation and creating around 150 direct and indirect jobs during development and construction.
A structured training programme has been introduced to build local expertise, with 15 Omani professionals working alongside international specialists in areas such as engineering, health and safety, construction management, and operations.
Supporting Oman’s Clean Energy Goals
According to Kumail Said, the projects were designed not only to deliver renewable electricity but also to strengthen Oman’s industrial base and technical capabilities in the clean energy sector.
As Oman’s national renewable energy champion, OQAE is tasked with supporting the country’s long-term energy transition goals, including the targets outlined in Oman Vision 2040 and the Net Zero 2050 strategy.
With commissioning scheduled for the end of the year, the Riyah wind projects and North Oman Solar plant are expected to play a key role in expanding Oman’s renewable capacity while supporting economic diversification and energy security.
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