HH Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said inaugurated Oman’s largest solar power plant, Manah 1, which will generate 500 megawatts (MW) of clean electricity. The project, located 170 kilometers north of Muscat in the Ad Dhakiliyah governorate, will supply power to over 60,000 households and avoid 780,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
The Manah 1 Solar Independent Power Project (IPP) was developed by the Wadi Noor Solar Power Company SAOC, a joint venture between EDF Renewables from France and Korea Western Power Co Ltd (KOWEPO). Both entities hold equal ownership stakes of 50%.
The plant is built on a 7.8 square kilometer site and features 1 million bifacial photovoltaic (PV) solar panels mounted on single-axis trackers. These panels capture sunlight on both sides and follow the sun’s movement to enhance energy production. The facility also employs 1,200 automated dry-cleaning robots, eliminating the need for water and ensuring efficient maintenance.
Manah 1 will contribute to meeting Oman’s growing energy demand, which reached a peak of 7,500 MW in 2024. The project doubled the renewable energy capacity in Oman from 550 MW to 1,050 MW. It is connected to Oman’s Main Interconnected System (MIS), which serves the country’s power needs.
The project has also introduced initiatives to support Omani youth by creating job opportunities and providing advanced training on solar technology. The developers adhered to strict health and safety standards throughout the construction phase, achieving zero lost-time incidents.
EDF Renewables is also exploring other renewable energy opportunities worldwide, including wind, solar, and energy storage. In South Korea, EDF has invested in offshore wind projects, including the Jeonnam Floating Wind initiative, which aims to develop 1.5 GW of clean energy. In Oman, smaller-scale solar projects, such as rooftop solar systems for residential and commercial properties, are being promoted through local programs.
