Construction of Oman’s JBB Wind IPP Set to Begin in Q3: Implications for Renewable Energy Investment
MUSCAT, APRIL 12 — Construction of the 120 MW Jaalan Bani Bu Ali (JBB) Wind Power Project in the Al Sharqiyah South Governorate is set to begin in the third quarter of this year. This project marks the start of a new era for utility-scale wind farms aimed at enhancing wind energy contributions to Oman’s renewable energy landscape.
The development is being overseen by Saba Jalan Wind Power SPC, with seasoned Omani renewable energy executive Yahya al Rawahi at the helm. In an exclusive interview with the Observer, Al Rawahi detailed the diverse consortium of both local and international partners that signed significant agreements with the Nama Power and Water Procurement Company (PWP). This partnership established a 20-year power purchase agreement last December.
“The project company, Saba Jalan Wind Power SPC, is backed by three robust institutional shareholders. EDF, a leading global energy company, holds a 49 percent stake; Al Khadra Partners, part of the Hind Bahwan Group, holds 26 percent; and OQ Alternative Energy (OQAE), the renewables division of OQ Group, holds the remaining 25 percent. This balanced partnership effectively melds international expertise with strong local and regional ties,” said Al Rawahi.
Preparation and mobilization efforts are already underway at the project site. The main construction phase will be managed by a consortium of experienced Chinese engineering firms, including the East China Electric Power Design Institute (ECEPDI), China Power Engineering Consulting Group International Engineering (CPECC), and China Energy Engineering Group Hunan Power Construction (HPCC). “Their extensive technical expertise in large-scale power infrastructure assures us they will deliver this project to the highest standards,” he added.
Crucially, the wind farm’s main hardware, including turbines and blades, will be supplied by Goldwind, a leader in wind energy technology. “Goldwind’s established reliability and high performance make them well-suited to the environmental conditions of Al Sharqiyah South,” Al Rawahi noted.
Operational management will be the responsibility of Saba Jalan Wind Power, in collaboration with specialized operations and maintenance partners. This hybrid model ensures accountability while providing access to world-class operational expertise throughout the lifecycle of the project.
Al Rawahi emphasized the project’s importance for Oman’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions, stating, “The JBB Wind project is more than just a power generation facility; it signifies Oman’s serious intentions regarding clean energy. Projects like this lay the foundation for a sustainable, diversified energy future in line with Oman Vision 2040.”
He further expressed enthusiasm about the caliber of partnerships involved, stating, “We’re uniting world-class expertise from across the globe to deliver clean, reliable energy for Oman. As the CEO of Saba Jalan Wind Power, I am honored to lead this initiative and am eager to embark on this journey to establish a landmark project for the Sultanate of Oman.”
According to Nama PWP, the JBB Wind Farm is anticipated to connect to the grid by the third quarter of 2027.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The Jaalan Bani Bu Ali Wind Power Project marks a significant entry into renewable energy for Oman, presenting opportunities for local businesses to engage in the green energy sector. As international partnerships flourish, smart investors should consider aligning with renewable initiatives to leverage potential growth and mitigate risks associated with energy transition. This project not only reinforces Oman’s commitment to sustainability but also opens avenues for innovation within the energy landscape, encouraging strategic investments in this burgeoning sector.
