OQ Alternative Energy Welcomes First Wind Turbines for Riyah Projects
MUSCAT: OQ Alternative Energy (OQAE), a subsidiary of OQ and recognized as the national leader in renewable energy for Oman, has announced the arrival of its first batch of wind turbines destined for the Riyah 1 and Riyah 2 wind farms. These projects, developed in collaboration with TotalEnergies, will collectively feature 36 turbines and are set to generate an impressive 200 megawatts (MW) of clean electricity harnessed from wind power.
A Key Milestone for Clean Energy in Oman
The introduction of these turbines signifies an important milestone in Oman’s efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources. This development aligns directly with the targets outlined in Oman Vision 2040 and the nation’s pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Upon becoming operational, Riyah 1 and Riyah 2 are expected to deliver significant environmental benefits, including an annual reduction of around 740,000 tonnes of carbon emissions. The projects will also contribute to energy savings, with millions of cubic meters of natural gas expected to be preserved each year.
Commitment to Sustainability and Economic Growth
This milestone not only reflects Oman’s dedication to enhancing its renewable energy landscape, but it also underscores the nation’s vision for a sustainable economy. Eng Ghalib al Maamari, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of OQ Alternative Energy, expressed enthusiasm about this achievement, stating, “The arrival of the turbines for Riyah 1 and Riyah 2 marks a new chapter in Oman’s renewable energy journey.”
He highlighted that the Riyah Wind Projects embody OQ’s steadfast commitment to leveraging renewable resources at scale. Al Maamari emphasized the partnership with TotalEnergies, blending local knowledge with global expertise in renewable development, to transform Oman’s renewable potential into tangible advancements.
Strategic Partnership for Power Purchase
The Riyah projects are being developed under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Petroleum Development Oman (PDO). This agreement ensures that the electricity generated from these wind farms will be well-utilized to meet the growing need for industrial renewable energy in the country. Furthermore, the energy produced will play a vital role in supporting Oman’s ambitious green hydrogen initiatives.
Future Outlook
The successful delivery of the wind turbines is a significant step forward in achieving Oman’s renewable energy goals. By integrating wind energy into the nation’s energy mix, Oman aims not only to fulfill its energy demands but also to establish itself as a leader in renewable energy within the region.
With the Riyah 1 and Riyah 2 projects, Oman is paving the way for an energy landscape that prioritizes sustainability and innovation. As these projects advance towards completion, they promise to contribute to a cleaner, greener future—a crucial step on the path to meeting environmental targets and fostering economic growth through renewable resources.
