In a strategic move to fortify and expand Oman's national grid, the Oman Electricity Transmission Company has unveiled an ambitious plan to execute 41 transmission projects across the country between 2024 and 2028. As the steward of the nation's grid infrastructure, OETC aims to enhance and reinforce the grid's capabilities to meet the growing energy demands and ensure robustness in the transmission network. The projects are spread across the Main Interconnected System and the Dhofar System, with a primary focus on increasing transmission system capacity, integrating new generation sources, connecting rural areas, and upholding the Transmission Security Standard.
Eng Saleh bin Nasser al Rumhi, the CEO of OETC, elaborated on the significance of these projects, emphasizing their role in preparing the grid for future demand and enhancing its resilience. One of the key objectives of these initiatives is to enable the evacuation of renewable electricity generated from various solar and wind power projects underway at strategic locations throughout Oman.
The scope of the 41 transmission projects encompasses the establishment of grid stations, development of 400kV transmission networks, cross-border interconnections, and the implementation of a pivotal backbone transmission system. These projects are aligned with the capacity requirements envisioned by Nama Power and Water Procurement Company and Oman's main distribution companies, Nama Electricity Distribution Company and Nama Dhofar Services
OETC's proactive approach includes the connection of multiple solar photovoltaic schemes currently in progress, such as the Manah I and II solar PV projects with a combined capacity of 1000 MW, set to be grid-connected by mid-2024. Future endeavors include linking the proposed 500 MW Ibri III Solar Independent Power Producer to the grid by early 2026 and launching a new 500 MW capacity Solar IPP in Al Kamil by the second quarter of 2027. Additionally, plans are in place to integrate a series of Wind IPPs into the grid over the coming years, contributing to Oman's renewable energy expansion.
The transmission projects are not limited to solar initiatives; they also encompass wind power projects within the Main Interconnected System and the Dhofar System. These projects, including wind farms at locations like Jalaan Bani Bu Ali, Mahout, Ras Madrakah, Harweel, and Sadah, will progressively connect to the grid between 2026 and 2027, further diversifying Oman's renewable energy portfolio.
Furthermore, OETC's involvement in the North-South Interconnection Project, Rabt, underscores its commitment to enhancing grid resiliency and operational efficiency. Phase 2 of Rabt, initiated earlier this year and slated for completion by the second quarter of 2027, is expected to yield substantial benefits for Oman, including fuel savings, improved dispatch coordination, access to renewable energy sources, and enhanced grid reliability.
