Etihad Water and Electricity Joins Consortium to Develop Significant Power Generation Projects in Oman
In a noteworthy advancement for energy infrastructure within the Middle East, Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) has officially announced its collaboration in consortiums dedicated to the development of two major power generation projects in the Sultanate of Oman: the Misfah and Duqm power plants. This significant announcement follows the formal signing of consortium agreements led by Nebras Power for the Misfah project and Korea Western Power (KOWEPO) for the Duqm initiative, collectively amounting to an estimated investment of approximately Omani Rial (OMR) 1 billion, roughly translating to around USD 2.6 billion.
The Misfah project will be a collaboration between Etihad Water and Electricity and Bahwan Infrastructure Services, aiming to construct a power facility with a remarkable capacity of about 1,700 megawatts (MW). On the other hand, the Duqm project consortium comprises Nebras Power, Etihad Water and Electricity, and Bahwan Infrastructure Services, projected to yield a capacity of approximately 877 MW.
Both power plants are poised to leverage cutting-edge technology, specifically advanced combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) systems, which promise heightened fuel efficiency. This efficiency not only optimizes energy production but also plays a critical role in reducing carbon emissions, thereby aligning with global efforts to minimize environmental impact.
Upon commencement of operations, these projects are anticipated to bolster the stability of Oman’s national electricity grid, underpinning a robust framework for economic and industrial growth within the region. Moreover, they have been engineered for prospective integration with carbon capture systems. This strategic foresight mirrors Oman’s commitment to transitioning towards a low-emissions energy model, an initiative that is increasingly vital in the face of global climate change concerns.
Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, the UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure and Chairman of the Board of Directors for Etihad Water and Electricity, articulated the significance of this partnership: “This partnership reflects the UAE’s commitment to advancing mutually beneficial and sustainable energy cooperation across the region. By collaborating with trusted partners in the Sultanate of Oman, we are bolstering the development of highly efficient, flexible generation capacity that enhances energy security and reliability, while remaining aligned with the long-term transition to lower-emissions energy systems.”
He added that this initiative reinforces the robust bilateral ties between the UAE and Oman and represents a substantial step toward achieving tangible outcomes that foster sustainable growth for both nations.
Further supporting the initiative is Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Oman’s Minister of Energy and Minerals. He emphasized that these projects are instrumental in consolidating Oman’s national energy system. They exemplify the country’s commitment to fulfilling the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This is especially pertinent as the technologies deployed in these projects are capable of accommodating fuel blends that include up to 30 percent hydrogen, which represents a promising alternative energy source.
Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Nebras Power, highlighted the socio-economic benefits the projects bring to Oman. He reiterated that increasing electricity generation capacity is crucial to meeting the burgeoning demand for energy, which is directly tied to the nation’s socio-economic development. Additionally, the projects are set to create numerous employment opportunities, empowering local talent.
Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Water and Electricity, asserted the company’s pivotal role as a regional development partner in essential infrastructure initiatives. He stated, “Our participation in the Misfah and Duqm projects reflects our commitment to supporting regional energy security and strengthening Gulf cooperation. This aligns with our mission to develop efficient and future-ready power generation solutions that facilitate the transition to lower-carbon energy systems.”
Etihad Water and Electricity’s active role in these strategic consortium projects underscores its position as a leading utility organization contributing to sustainable economic and community development. The company currently serves over 2 million residents in the Northern Emirates while managing a power and water network exceeding 23,000 kilometers. Moreover, its robust involvement in public-private partnership projects throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and beyond further solidifies its status as an influential player in the regional energy landscape.
Through initiatives such as the Misfah and Duqm projects, Oman and the UAE continue to forge a path toward a more sustainable and resilient energy future, underpinned by cooperation and innovation.
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