Muscat s energy storage policy update

Which utility-scale energy storage options are available in Oman?

Reviewing the status of three utility-scale energy storage options: pumped hydroelectric energy storage (PHES), compressed air energy storage, and hydrogen storage. Conducting a techno-economic case study on utilising PHES facilities to supply peak demand in Oman.

Is Oman ready to move away from the shared ownership structure?

Gas fields and processing plants are operated by PDO exclusively on behalf of the government and EDO. Looking to the future, Oman is prepared to move away from the shared ownership structure that is typified by PDO, allowing both domestic and international players to operate more independently.

How can energy storage improve the penetration of intermittent resources?

Energy storage can increase the penetration of intermittent resources by improving power system flexibility, reducing energy curtailment and minimising system costs. By the end of 2018 the global capacity for pump hydropower storage reached 160 GW whereas the global capacity for battery storage totalled around 3 GW (REN21 2019 ).

Can Oman achieve net-zero emissions by 2050?

These include energy efficiency projects such as those that aim to reduce natural gas and methane emissions by using advanced monitoring techniques like satellites and thermal cameras. This followed the official announcement in October 2022 that Oman aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Why has Oman expanded water supply from desalination plants?

To cope with the reduction in rain-fed water sources and the decline in groundwater recharge, Oman has expanded water supply from desalination plants. Water supply from these sources grew significantly from 146 million m 3 in 2010 to 315 million m 3 in 2018.