Oman’s OQAE to Build 1.1 GW Wind Farms Using Local Turbines

Oman has made an important step toward clean energy. OQ Alternative Energy (OQAE), the renewable energy arm of Oman’s state energy company, has signed an agreement to build a total of 1.1 gigawatts (GW) of wind power projects.

They will work together with Naqaa Sustainable Energy, a new, little-known energy company in Oman. Together, they plan to build wind farms across three regions: Duqm, Mahout, and Sadah. These locations were already identified previously in a request for proposals in 2024.

Under the deal, they will use wind turbines made right here in Oman by a company called Mawarid Turbine. Mawarid is building its first factory, which will be able to produce 1 GW of turbines per year, and it will begin operations in 2026. This means the turbines for the wind farms will come from within Oman, supporting local industry.

What This Deal Means for Oman

1. Big Clean Energy Project
   With 1.1 GW of new wind power, Oman takes a major step toward cleaner electricity. That’s enough energy to power hundreds of thousands of homes while cutting carbon emissions.

2. Boosting Local Manufacturing
   By using turbines made locally by Mawarid, Oman boosts its own industry. This means more jobs, more skills, and more technology staying inside the country.

3. Targeted Project Locations
   The wind farms in Duqm, Mahout, and Sadah were chosen because they are ideal spots for wind energy. These regions were part of the 2024 project round.

4. Partnership with a Newcomer
   OQAE chose Naqaa, a newer company in Oman, showing support for fresh ideas and new players in the energy sector.

5. Green Energy Leadership
   Oman is making a strong move in renewable energy, potentially inspiring other Gulf nations to do the same.

Who Is Involved?

• OQ Alternative Energy (OQAE): A branch of Oman’s state energy firm focusing on renewable power.

• Naqaa Sustainable Energy: A new Omani firm partnering with OQAE to build the wind farms.

• Mawarid Turbine: A local turbine-manufacturing company starting a 1 GW/year factory by 2026 

Where Are the Wind Farms?

• Duqm: A developing economic zone on the southern coast.

• Mahout: Located in southern Oman, known for open space and strong wind.

• Sadah: Near Oman’s border with Yemen, another windy area ideal for turbines.

These areas were listed in a 2024 request for proposals by energy authorities

Why Use Local Turbines?

1. Job Creation: Building turbines in Oman creates jobs in factories and services.

2. Tech Transfer: Local engineers gain expertise in building and maintaining turbines.

3. Supply Chain: It’s easier and faster to maintain turbines when parts are made at home.

4. Economic Growth: Money stays inside the country, supporting Omani businesses.

Timeline and Goals

• Mawarid aims to start producing turbines in 2026 

• OQAE and Naqaa will set a plan to design, build, and connect the wind farms over the next few years.

• Power from the wind farms will be sold to Oman’s electricity grid, helping reduce fossil fuel use.

Why Oman Is Investing in Wind Power

• Diversifying Energy Supply: Like many Gulf countries, Oman wants to rely less on oil and gas and more on renewables.

• Environmental Goals: Wind energy helps cut carbon emissions and reach climate commitments.

• Economic Security: Clean energy reduces the risk of global oil price changes.

• Technology Growth: Local wind production builds a skilled workforce and renewable energy know-how.

How This Fits into Oman’s Plans

This deal is part of Oman’s Vision 2040 plan, which aims to:

• Grow renewable energy capacity to over 4 GW by 2030.

• Support local manufacturing and reduce unemployment.

• Create new industries in technology and clean energy.

Challenges to Watch

• Building the Factory: Mawarid must complete its turbine factory on time and meet quality standards.

• Making Naqaa Strong: As a new company, Naqaa must show it can handle loading power plants and invest steadily.

• Project Execution: The wind farms must be built well and connected to the grid securely.

• Environmental Care: Careful planning is needed to protect wildlife and land during construction.

• Community Support: Locals near project sites must be included and benefit from the development.

Regional Impact

This move by Oman may encourage other Gulf countries to invest in local wind manufacturing and renewable energy. It can set a regional example for how to build local industry, reduce carbon emissions, and create jobs.

Taking the Next Steps

1. Finalize the Deal: Ensure contracts with Naqaa and Mawarid are clear.

2. Start Factory Construction: Mawarid needs to build the turbine factory and hire employees.

3. Build the Wind Farms: OQAE and Naqaa will develop the farms in Duqm, Mahout, and Sadah.

4. Grid Connection: The projects must connect to Oman’s national electricity grid.

5. Operation & Monitoring: Once operational, the wind farms will produce electricity and be closely monitored for performance.

Oman’s agreement to build 1.1 GW of wind farms in partnership with Naqaa and using local turbines from Mawarid marks a big step into the clean energy future. This project supports local industry, creates jobs, and helps fight climate change. It also shows Oman’s leadership in the region on renewable energy.

If executed well, these wind farms will not just power thousands of homes—they will power a cleaner, more sustainable, and more self-reliant Oman.