Oman’s Landmark Waste-to-Energy Project: What Global Competition Means for Investors and Businesses
MUSCAT: Oman’s aspiration to transition toward a circular economy and diversify its energy resources has garnered significant international attention. Nama Power and Water Procurement (Nama PWP) recently announced the submission of proposals for its innovative Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Project, which is a key element of the Sultanate’s sustainable development strategy. The initiative has attracted Statements of Qualification from 18 esteemed international and local firms across ten different countries.
The geographical diversity of the applicants, including companies from the USA, China, Spain, Switzerland, Japan, Singapore, Kuwait, France, the UAE, and Oman, highlights the project’s strategic significance and reflects the confidence international developers have in Oman’s rapidly evolving infrastructure market.
Planned for the Wilayat of Barka in the Al Batinah South Governorate, the WtE facility will utilize a reliable Grate Incineration process to manage a substantial volume of municipal solid waste, specifically 3,000 tonnes per day. The project aims to achieve considerable environmental and energy advantages, featuring a power generation capacity of 95-100 Megawatts (MW) and an estimated renewable energy contribution of 757 GWh per year.
In addition, the facility is expected to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions by an estimated 302,000 tonnes annually. The project is set to occupy an area of 190,000 square meters and is aiming for a Scheduled Commercial Operation Date in the fourth quarter of 2030. This endeavor, developed in conjunction with the Oman Environmental Services Holding Company (be’ah), aligns seamlessly with the Sultanate’s broader economic and environmental ambitions, including its goal of achieving Net Zero emissions.
The companies that submitted Statements of Qualification for the Waste-to-Energy Project reflect a robust global interest in Oman’s renewable and sustainable infrastructure development. The mix includes powerful international consortiums and key local players, indicating a highly competitive bidding landscape.
Following the submission of these statements, Nama PWP will conduct a thorough evaluation to identify short-listed developers. Qualified companies will then be invited to participate in the final Request for Proposals (RFP) stage. The substantial participation of international energy and waste management leaders—many of whom are already engaged in Oman’s power sector—suggests intense competition for this Build, Own, and Operate (BOO) framework contract. This project is viewed as not only a crucial part of Oman’s energy diversification efforts but also a significant step toward transforming major waste streams into a dependable source of power, advancing the country’s transition to a circular economy.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman’s push towards a circular economy through the Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Project presents significant opportunities for businesses in the renewable energy sector, particularly as it attracts global investment and expertise. However, the competitive landscape may pose risks for local players, requiring strategic partnerships and innovative approaches to secure contracts. Smart investors and entrepreneurs should position themselves to leverage this momentum, focusing on sustainable solutions and aligning their strategies with Oman’s commitment to a Net Zero future.
