BUSINESS REPORTER
MUSCAT, NOV 17
The Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR) continues to play a pivotal role in regulating electricity, water, wastewater, and natural gas transmission sectors in the Sultanate of Oman. The Authority is currently implementing strategic initiatives to bolster economic growth, enhance local value addition, and create employment opportunities for Omani nationals, aligning with Oman Vision 2040’s focus on energy, innovation, economic development, sustainability, and job creation.
In 2023, the Authority achieved significant milestones in Omanization across the electricity and water sectors, with 10,442 Omanis comprising 79 per cent of the workforce out of 13,248 employees. Additionally, contracts worth RO 35 million were awarded to local SMEs, underscoring its commitment to supporting the national economy.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
The Authority is advancing Oman’s national goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Key projects include: Ibri 2 Solar Plant (With a capacity of 500 MW, it provides electricity to 33,000 homes and reduces annual carbon emissions by 340 tonnes); Manah 1 and 2 Solar Projects (Each generating 500 MW, collectively producing 1,000 MW); Rooftop Solar Systems (Generating 60 MW of energy from residential and commercial installations); and Dhofar 1 Wind Farm (Generating 50 MW, sufficient to power 16,000 homes).
Several wind energy projects are in the pipeline for implementation. The list includes: Duqm (Ras Madrakah) Wind Project (234–270 MW); Sadah Wind Project (81–99 MW); Dhofar 2 Wind Project (114–132 MW); and Jaalan Bani Bu Ali Wind Project (91–105 MW).
To support electric mobility, the Authority has issued regulations for EV charging stations, prepared technical guidelines for grid integration, and launched the “Sustainable Energy” campaign focusing on sustainable construction, renewable energy, and electric vehicles.
The Authority is enhancing operational efficiency and financial performance within the electricity sector. A landmark project includes linking Oman’s northern and southern electricity grids to improve resource sustainability, reliability, and efficiency.
This initiative will eliminate 14 high-cost diesel power plants, and reduce carbon emissions by 474,000 tonnes annually.
Other innovations include direct energy sales frameworks for large customers and promoting competition in supply activities.
WATER AND WASTEWATER SERVICES
APSR is committed to developing reliable water and wastewater networks while enhancing customer experiences. Notable achievements include: Reduced Connection Fees (Residential water connection fees were reduced from RO 700 to RO 200.
Additionally, several new water projects are in various stages of implementation. Notable is the Ghubrah 3 water desalination plant with a capacity of 300,000 cubic meters/day. Strategic reservoirs with a combined storage capacity of 350,000 cubic metres are also under development. Water transmission projects linking Suhar and Ibri are also under construction, along with distribution network upgrades in various governorates.
Wastewater projects include advanced treatment and network expansion in several areas, such as Seeb, Al Amerat, Suwaiq, and Suhar, aligning with Oman’s strategic infrastructure goals.
The Authority prioritizes high-quality customer services by adopting global best practices. Key initiatives include: Ensuring transparency in service agreements; Establishing clear guidelines for addressing complaints and service standards; and Monitoring service providers through key performance indicators (KPIs), such as billing accuracy and response times.
To safeguard customer rights, the Authority has introduced “Service Level Guarantees” requiring providers to compensate customers if performance standards are unmet.
APSR remains committed to fostering sustainable development, supporting Oman’s energy transition, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens while celebrating the nation’s 54th National Day with pride.
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