Interview: Mansoor Al Hinai
How can developing key utilities infrastructure support long-term energy and sustainability goals?
MANSOOR AL HINAI: Expanding and modernising Oman’s national grid is key to integrating more renewable energy and supporting long-term sustainability goals. A significant milestone has been the interconnection of the northern and southern electricity networks, improving grid reliability and enabling efficient power distribution. This is crucial for harnessing solar and wind energy while reducing reliance on diesel in remote areas. Investment in energy storage, such as pumped hydro, is also gaining importance to ensure grid stability as renewables expand. Enhancing transmission infrastructure and extending the electricity network to accommodate renewable projects remain top priorities.
Improving water and wastewater infrastructure is vital for efficiency and sustainable resource management. Expanding desalination and adopting advanced water treatment technologies help meet rising demand with minimal environmental impact. Waste management development promotes a circular economy through recycling and waste-to-energy initiatives.
What role is integrating renewable energy sources playing in improving utility networks?
AL HINAI: Renewable energy integration is transforming Oman’s utilities networks by increasing capacity and enhancing sustainability. Large-scale solar and wind projects are accelerating, with Oman aiming for the contribution of renewables to reach 30% of the total energy production of the country by 2030. An important benefit is reducing reliance on fossil fuels, particularly diesel, in remote areas. Expanding the electricity transmission network coupled with integration of renewable energy enables cleaner energy distribution, cutting emissions and improving efficiency.
Managing grid stability with intermittent renewables remains a challenge. Regulatory reforms, including bilateral trading of energy between the market participants and wheeling charges are a few enablers that promote flexibility and private sector investment, creating a more dynamic energy market.
In what ways is technology adoption transforming utilities management and customer service?
AL HINAI: Technology is transforming Oman’s utilities sector by improving efficiency, reducing losses and enhancing customer service. A major advancement is the rollout of smart metering, which will be fully implemented in electricity and water services by 2025. Smart meters enable real-time consumption monitoring, providing accurate data for better demand forecasting and energy efficiency. They help customers manage usage while allowing providers to reduce operational costs, improve billing accuracy and respond to outages faster.
To what extent will balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability be a challenge?
AL HINAI: Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability will be a key challenge for Oman’s utilities sector as demand for energy, water and waste management services rises. The industry must expand infrastructure to support economic growth while minimising environmental impact. A major focus is improving energy efficiency across industries and households. Regulatory measures, such as guaranteed service standards and efficiency incentives, aim to optimise consumption while maintaining service quality. Transitioning from fossil fuels to a diversified energy mix presents further opportunities and complexities. Expanding renewable projects is crucial, but ensuring grid stability and affordability remains a concern.
Workforce development presents another challenge. As digital transformation accelerates, upskilling workers to align with evolving industry needs is essential. While increased automation and digitalisation enhance efficiency, they require careful management in order to balance technological advancements with job creation.
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