Vertical Axis Wind Turbines Make Oman Debut: What This Means for Renewable Energy Investment Opportunities
Muscat: In a pioneering move for Oman, the first batch of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) has been installed at a small water desalination plant, marking the start of broader use of this technology as a more cost-effective, albeit less efficient, alternative to traditional wind turbines in the Sultanate.
The India-based energy consultancy Quebeq Ventures was contracted to supply and install the 60 kW turbines at a desalination facility in Quroon, located in the Wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, Al Sharqiyah South Governorate. These turbines operate alongside other renewable energy sources, mainly solar photovoltaic systems, supporting Nama Water Services’ efforts to decarbonise some of its remote operations.
VAWTs feature a vertically oriented rotor shaft, which allows their blades to capture wind from any direction without needing to reorient. This capability makes them ideal for urban or turbulent wind conditions where wind direction frequently shifts.
Compared to traditional Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWTs), which require alignment with prevailing winds and are mounted on tall towers, VAWTs are quieter, simpler to maintain, and can be installed closer to ground level. However, they tend to have lower efficiency and output, making them better suited for small-scale or distributed power generation rather than large utility wind farms.
Chennai-based Quebeq Ventures emphasized the installation’s importance, stating, "This achievement represents a significant step forward in supporting Oman Vision 2040 and advancing the nation’s sustainability and clean energy goals. The newly installed turbines will provide reliable renewable power for the plant’s operations, reinforcing our commitment to innovation in sustainable infrastructure."
Although this is Oman’s first commercial-scale deployment of VAWTs, interest in the technology has existed for nearly a decade. In early 2022, students from the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) in Wilayat Ibri, Al Dhahirah Governorate, won a regional award for a project that used VAWTs to harness highway winds to power street lighting, showcasing a commitment to innovative and localized renewable energy solutions.
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The deployment of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) at a desalination plant marks a strategic move toward diversified, cost-effective renewable energy solutions in Oman, aligning with Oman Vision 2040. While VAWTs offer lower efficiency than traditional turbines, their adaptability to urban and turbulent wind conditions presents new opportunities for small-scale, distributed power projects, especially in remote or challenging environments. Smart investors should explore niche renewable technologies and support innovative, localized clean energy initiatives to capitalize on Oman’s growing sustainability agenda.
