PDO Partners with OQAE, TotalEnergies for RE Projects

Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) has signed landmark agreements with OQ Alternative Energy (OQAE) and TotalEnergies to develop three significant renewable energy projects under the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model.

These projects include the North Solar 100 MW Photovoltaic (PV) farm and two wind farms, Riyah-1 Wind 100MW IPP and Riyah-2 Wind 100 MW IPP. Together, these initiatives represent a crucial step in PDO’s commitment to sustainability, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 and the national goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

The North Solar IPP will span three square kilometers and will generate 100 MW of clean, renewable energy. Scheduled to be commercially operational by the second quarter of 2026, this utility-scale solar photovoltaic farm will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 220,000 tonnes annually and conserve millions of cubic meters of natural gas, contributing significantly to Oman’s sustainable energy goals.

The Riyah-1 and Riyah-2 wind farms, located in Amin and Nimr West, will collectively produce 200 MW  of clean energy. These wind projects, covering an area equal to 1,870 football pitches, are expected to commence operations by the fourth quarter of 2026. They mark a groundbreaking achievement, with PDO becoming the first oil and gas company to integrate wind energy into its grid. The wind farms are anticipated to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 740,000 tonnes annually while saving millions of cubic meters of gas, resulting in substantial environmental and economic benefits.

The agreements were commended by Eng Salim Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, who highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing the energy transition. He noted that PDO’s partnerships with key energy players exemplify national efforts to reduce carbon emissions and embrace renewable energy solutions, aligning with global trends towards a sustainable future.

Dr. Aflah al Hadhrami, Managing Director of PDO, emphasised the significance of these agreements in supporting Oman’s net-zero ambitions. He stated that the projects reflect PDO’s steadfast commitment to diversifying energy sources and ensuring sustainable energy security, consistent with the objectives outlined in Oman Vision 2040.

Najla Zuhair al Jamali, Chief Executive of OQ Alternative Energy, described the signing as a pivotal moment for OQAE, which has over 7GW of clean energy projects in its pipeline. She reaffirmed the company’s role as the National Champion for Clean Energy, focussing on fostering sustainable growth in Oman’s energy sector and building strategic partnerships to enable a smooth transition to renewable energy.

Olivier Jouny, Senior Vice President of Renewables at TotalEnergies, underlined the collaboration’s role in driving innovation and sustainability. These renewable energy projects reflects PDO’s leadership in the sector, demonstrating a shared commitment to reducing emissions, conserving natural resources, and ensuring a sustainable energy future for Oman.

By integrating solar and wind energy into the national energy grid, PDO and its partners are setting a global benchmark for innovation and environmental stewardship.