Expanded Omani Solar PV Module Project: What It Means for Investors and Entrepreneurs in Oman
Oman-based American Advanced Clean Energy (AACE) has significantly expanded the capacity of its solar photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturing plant located in the Salalah Free Zone. This move aims to capitalize on the lucrative US market by leveraging the Sultanate’s Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States.
The expansion includes the installation of a fully automated 400 MW PV module production line, designed and supplied by the Italian solar technology company Ecoprogetti. This advanced production line incorporates next-generation PV technologies that enhance efficiency, durability, and long-term energy output. It supports the manufacturing of both TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) and HJT (Heterojunction Technology) modules.
Ecoprogetti explained that the 400 MW line features cutting-edge automation across all stages of the manufacturing process, including stringing, lay-up, lamination, framing, testing, and advanced quality inspection systems.
AACE’s CEO, Mohammed Hauter, emphasized the crucial role of the company’s in-house Research & Development division in producing modules that meet international certification standards. He remarked, “AACE is a powerhouse driven by some of the world’s top scientists, fully dedicated to advancing photovoltaic technologies.” He added that the company’s vertical expansion strategy aims to establish AACE as a globally recognized provider of high-performance solar solutions.
The Salalah facility also enhances Ecoprogetti’s presence in Oman. The Italian firm previously installed the Sultanate’s first-ever 50 MW TOPCon module line for Sheida Industries in Sohar Freezone last year, marking its entry into the Omani market.
Laura Sartore, CEO of Ecoprogetti, noted, “With two plants now operating from north to south, Ecoprogetti is proud to support the growth of the local photovoltaic value chain and Oman’s vision for a sustainable energy future.”
Salalah has recently developed into a key hub for clean energy manufacturing, drawing investments aligned with Oman’s energy transition goals and regional demand. A major initiative includes a $490 million Battery and Energy Storage Materials Project by GFCL EV (SFZ) LLC, part of India’s InoxGFL Group, which will produce lithium iron phosphate and other vital battery components.
Meanwhile, Sohar continues to attract significant investments aimed at establishing a fully integrated renewable energy value chain. Key projects include JA Solar’s $565 million solar cell and module factory, with an annual capacity of 6 GW of cells and 3 GW of modules, and United Solar Polysilicon’s $1.3 billion polysilicon plant—the largest in the Middle East—supplying essential raw materials for solar manufacturing.
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Oman’s strategic expansion in advanced solar PV manufacturing, exemplified by AACE’s cutting-edge 400 MW production line in Salalah, positions the Sultanate as a key player in the global clean energy supply chain, leveraging its Free Trade Agreement with the US to access lucrative markets. This surge in high-tech renewable investments creates significant opportunities for businesses and investors to capitalize on Oman’s growing clean energy ecosystem, while also signaling a forward-looking shift toward sustainability that could enhance long-term economic resilience. Smart investors and entrepreneurs should consider engaging with Oman’s emerging energy hubs in Salalah and Sohar, tapping into integrated value chains for photovoltaics, battery materials, and related technologies.
