Saturday 20 / June / 2026
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman is set to take a significant step toward expanding public participation in renewable energy with the launch of the “Imtidad” Community Solar Power Stations Programme next Tuesday, a pioneering initiative designed to make the benefits of solar energy accessible to a wider segment of society.
The programme, spearheaded by the Public Services Regulation Authority (PSRA) in cooperation with licensed electricity sector companies, will be launched under the patronage of Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals.
The initiative introduces a new model for community participation in clean energy projects by allowing individuals and businesses to benefit from solar power without having to install solar panels on their own properties.
Instead, subscribers will receive credits on their electricity bills from energy generated by community solar stations connected to the national grid.
Under the scheme, electricity produced by dedicated solar facilities will be allocated to participating subscribers through a regulated mechanism, helping reduce monthly electricity costs while supporting the country’s transition toward cleaner sources of energy.
A key highlight of the launch ceremony will be the inauguration of the Wadi Al Kabir Community Solar Power Station, the first project developed under the “Imtidad” programme and the first community solar power station in Oman. The facility is expected to serve as a pilot project for the gradual expansion of similar community-based solar initiatives across the Sultanate’s governorates.
Dr. Mansoor bin Talib Al Hinai, Chairman of the Public Services Regulation Authority, described the programme as an innovative national model that broadens access to renewable energy benefits and strengthens community engagement in the energy transition.
He said the initiative enables
members of the public to participate in solar energy projects through a flexible and inclusive framework while maximizing the value of available assets and facilities by transforming them into productive energy resources.
According to Al Hinai, the programme’s benefits extend beyond electricity generation. It is expected to generate economic, social and environmental gains by supporting electricity consumers, encouraging investment in renewable energy, enhancing local content, and creating new opportunities for Omani professionals and businesses operating in the clean energy sector.
The launch of “Imtidad” comes as Oman continues to accelerate efforts to diversify its energy mix and increase the share of renewable resources in electricity generation.
The programme is also expected to contribute to the sustainability of the national electricity subsidy system by promoting cost-effective clean energy solutions and encouraging more efficient energy consumption.
In addition, the initiative reflects a broader strategy to strengthen partnerships between government institutions, private sector companies and local communities in the development of renewable energy projects.
Energy experts view community solar projects as an effective way to expand access to renewable energy, particularly for residents and businesses that may not have suitable rooftop space or the financial resources required to install private solar systems. By pooling resources through shared facilities, participants can benefit from clean energy generation while supporting national sustainability goals.
As Oman pursues its ambitious renewable energy agenda, the “Imtidad” programme is expected to establish a practical and scalable model for community solar power stations, contributing to more efficient resource utilization and advancing the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 for sustainable economic, social and environmental development.
