Oman’s PDO mulls 100-MW solar tender - report

Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) considers tendering 100 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity by the end of the year, the Times of Oman reports, citing a top company official.

Raoul Restucci, PDO’s managing director, told the newspaper that the move is part of the oil production company’s plan to gradually turn into a fully-fledged energy company, which will be reflected in its name, as well. The group is in the process of rebranding to Energy Development Oman (EDO), he added.

On the solar front, PDO intends to issue an invitation to tender up to five PV projects of 20 MW each, to be located in areas between Bahja and Marmul. When up and running, the plants are expected to save around 8,550 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per year and lower PDO’s dependence on conventional gas turbines.

PDO is currently engaged in the 1,021-MWp Miraah concentrated solar thermal project in Oman, the first phase of which is expected to be completed next year, local media reported previously. The company is also planning a tender for independent power producer (IPP) solar projects of up to 500 MW.

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