Utilities

As rapid industrialisation continues in the sultanate, the utilities sector looks set to be a growth driver in terms of both construction contracts and private investment. In 2013 the Authority for Electricity Regulation reported that operators approved 276 projects worth $357.34m, and the numerous water and power plant projects in the pipeline bode well for future investors. Of particular interest is the renewable segment where progressive policies are in place to drive future growth and reduce dependence on hydrocarbons. The sultanate is capitalising on its high solar densities with solar energy currently being used in enhanced oil recovery schemes, while a funding grant from the Oman Research Council has enabled research into the use of concentrated solar power in desalination plants, with plans in place to develop an operational system by the end of 2015. This chapter contains interviews with Hassan Ali AbdulHussein, CEO, Haya Water; and Omar Al Wahaibi, CEO, Electricity Holding Company.