Oman Launches RO 5 Million Community Solar Program To Cut Power Bills And Expand Clean Energy

The Government of Oman has launched a new community solar energy initiative worth RO 5 million to expand the use of renewable energy, reduce electricity costs for households, and encourage greater participation from the private sector. The initiative, known as the Imtidad Community Solar Power Stations Program, was launched under the patronage of Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, the Minister of Energy and Minerals. According to the Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR), the program will establish several community solar power stations with a combined electricity generation capacity of around 20 MW.

The project is expected to provide significant financial benefits to citizens. Households that are part of the National Electricity Support Scheme could reduce their monthly electricity bills by as much as 40%. APSR Chairman Mansoor bin Talib Al Hinai said the program introduces a new national approach by converting government financial support into long-term productive assets. Instead of offering only direct subsidies, the initiative creates renewable energy infrastructure that delivers lasting economic and social benefits to local communities.

As part of the launch, the government also inaugurated the first solar power station under the program, named Imtidad 1. The facility is located in Al Wadi Al Kabir in the Muscat Governorate and represents an investment of around RO 300,000. The plant is equipped with nearly 2,000 solar panels and has a generation capacity of 1.46 MW. It will serve as the pilot project for similar community solar stations planned across the country.

The project also highlights the role of local businesses in Oman’s clean energy transition. The construction and development of Imtidad 1 were awarded to Omani small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through a competitive tendering process. Representatives from companies including Green Universe Enterprise and Nafath Renewables said the project demonstrates the capability of local firms to deliver large-scale renewable energy projects. They added that the initiative will strengthen the domestic supply chain, create new business opportunities, attract investment in clean energy, and generate skilled employment for Omani engineers and technicians.

The Imtidad Community Solar Power Stations Program is being implemented by APSR in partnership with regional Nama electricity distribution companies. It supports the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by promoting renewable energy, encouraging collaboration between the public and private sectors, and enabling households to benefit from affordable clean electricity without the need to install rooftop solar systems. The initiative marks an important step in Oman’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and achieve sustainable economic development.