Oman Launches RO 5 Million Imtidad Community Solar Programme To Cut Electricity Bills And Boost Clean Energy

Oman has launched a major community solar energy initiative worth RO 5 million to expand the use of renewable energy, reduce electricity costs for citizens, and support the country’s transition toward a greener future. The programme, named the Imtidad Community Solar Power Stations Programme, was introduced by the Minister of Energy and Minerals, Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi.

The initiative is being managed by the Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR). Under its first phase, several community solar power stations with a combined generation capacity of around 20 MW will be developed across the country. The project aims to turn government subsidy spending into long-term productive assets while promoting clean energy adoption.

One of the key benefits of the programme is its support for low-income households. Citizens registered under the National Electricity Support Scheme are expected to receive electricity bill savings of up to 40 percent. This financial relief is expected to help many families manage their energy expenses more effectively.

As part of the programme’s launch, Oman also inaugurated its first community solar power station, Imtidad 1. The facility is located in Al Wadi Al Kabir in the Muscat Governorate and was built at a cost of about RO 300,000. The project includes nearly 2,000 solar panels and has a generation capacity of 1.46 MW. It will serve as a model for future community solar projects planned across the country.

The programme is also expected to strengthen the local economy and create new opportunities for Omani businesses. The pilot project was awarded through a competitive tender process that involved Omani small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local renewable energy companies. Industry representatives noted that the initiative provides valuable technical experience for domestic firms while creating engineering and technical jobs for Omani citizens.

A significant advantage of the community solar model is that residents can benefit from solar-generated electricity without installing rooftop solar systems on their own properties. This makes renewable energy more accessible and affordable for a wider section of society.

The Imtidad programme is being implemented in partnership with Nama Power and Water Procurement, Nama Electricity Distribution, Nama Dhofar Services, and Nama Supply. The initiative supports the sustainability, energy security, and economic diversification goals outlined in Oman Vision 2040.