200-MW Solar Plant Planned for Oman
Oman has one of the highest solar energy densities in the world. A study has estimated the country could generate all its electricity from solar power. Using just a tiny percentage of desert land for solar collectors could satisfy all its energy needs.
Investing in solar power could help the country export more oil, and therefore increase revenues. It could also enhance the country’s green image and have a positive impact on foreign tourism. Currently, the government relies almost entirely on fossil fuels for energy. An oil slump in the late 90s brought attention to the fact that diversifying the economy might be advantageous.
For these reasons, and others, the Oman Power and Water Procurement company is researching the possibility of constructing a 200-MW photovoltaic and concentrating solar power plant. If the project is approved by the Council of Ministers, it will go to the stage of sending out requests for proposals. It has been reported that approval is expected, and in this year.
The Middle East has abundant sunshine and much open, flat land, so it is clearly a prime location for solar power. Saudi Arabia has already stepped up as a leader in renewable energy investment.
Image Credit: Darwinek, Wiki Commons
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