Additionally, OPWP is in the process of conducting a detailed wind resource assessment to collect bankable wind data for future wind power projects. “The WRA will be across several locations from Sharqiyah to Duqm and Dhofar where wind resource is considered high using satellite data,” the company said.
Meanwhile, the second utility-scale solar power project, planned for implementation in Manah in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, is proposed to be a mega scheme with a capacity ranging from 500-1000 megawatts (MW), according to OPWP.
Dubbed ‘Solar 2022’, the giant Independent Power Project (IPP) will be developed based on either solar photovoltaic or Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technology, or a combination of both, said Yaqoob al Kiyumi, CEO. Total investment in the project, slated for launch by June 2022, is estimated between $700- 800 million, he stated.
“Ibri II (Oman’s maiden utility-scale solar Independent Power Project awarded yesterday) is only the beginning, but the project pipeline is getting busier with more solar projects on the anvil,” said Al Kiyumi. ”The next one will be even bigger than Ibri. We expect the procurement process for the next project to be launched soon.”
Significantly, a Request for Qualifications (RfQ) — marking the start of a competitive process for the procurement of this landmark IPP —- is due to be floated round the middle of this year, with a Request for Proposals (RfP) planned before the year-end, said Al Kiyumi.
Source Link: www.omanobserver.om