Oman's 500 MW Manah 1 Solar Power Project Begins Key Construction Phase

The Manah 1 Solar Power project, a significant 500 MW renewable energy initiative in Oman's Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, has entered a pivotal construction phase. Over one million bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules have arrived on site, marking a major milestone in the project's development.

Located in the Wilayat of Manah, the project is being developed by Wadi Noor Solar Power Company, a consortium of EDF Renewables and Korea Western Power Co Ltd (KOWEPO). Shanghai Electric Company, through its local subsidiary Shanghai Electric Muscat Ltd SPC, is overseeing the construction.

Why this matters: The development of Oman's 500 MW Manah 1 Solar Power project marks a significant step towards the country's goal of diversifying its energy mix and increasing its use of renewable energy. This project's success could have far-reaching implications for Oman's economy and environment, and could serve as a model for other countries in the region.

The project will feature bifacial PV modules supplied by JA Solar, capable of generating power from both the top and bottom surfaces. These modules, with capacities of 585W and 590W, will be mounted on single-axis trackers to optimize power generation throughout the day.

Eng Yahya al Rawahi, CEO of Wadi Noor Solar Power, emphasized the advanced technology being employed: "These are bifacial modules capable of generating power from top and bottom faces of the modules."

The construction phase involves preparing a 7.8 km2 site for the installation of the PV modules. This preparation includes setting up piles and supporting structures. The project will also utilize fully automated single-axis trackers and automatic cleaning robots to enhance efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.

The renewable electricity generated by the Manah 1 Solar Power project will be transmitted to the grid via 400kV HV cables to the local 400kV grid station of Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC). This infrastructure is critical to integrating the new power generation capacity into Oman's national grid.

In line with Oman's commitment to local economic development, the project aims to achieve a minimum of 20% in-country value (ICV) during the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) phase. This includes sourcing locally manufactured items, employing local workforce, and engaging local subcontractors and service providers.

Eng Yahya al Rawahi highlighted this commitment: "The project is targeting a minimum of 20% in-country value (ICV) during the EPC phase by sourcing locally manufactured items, employing local workforce and deploying local subcontractors and service providers."

The Manah 1 Solar Power project is expected to start commercial operation in the first quarter of 2025. This timeline aligns with Oman's broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and increase the share of renewable energy in its national grid.

This project showcases Oman's commitment to sustainable development and renewable energy as it progresses into its key construction phase. The successful implementation of the Manah 1 Solar Power project will not only contribute to the country's energy needs but also support its economic and environmental goals.

Key Takeaways

• Oman's 500 MW Manah 1 Solar Power project enters construction phase.
• 1 million bifacial PV modules arrive on site, marking a major milestone.
• Project aims to diversify Oman's energy mix and increase renewable energy use.
• Expected to start commercial operation in Q1 2025, aligning with Oman's strategy.
• Project targets 20% in-country value (ICV) during EPC phase, supporting local economy.