Interview: Mazin Rashid Al Lamki
How do you see the sector evolving over the next 10 years in response to global energy shifts?
MAZIN RASHID AL LAMKI: Oman’s energy sector is poised for broadbased expansion across hydrocarbons and renewables. Our resource assessments are nearing completion, and early data shows stronger-than-expected potential in oil and gas. At the same time, we are conducting extensive solar and wind surveys, which will help define a clearer energy mix for domestic and export use. Regarding strategic direction, we are targeting 30% renewable energy in electricity generation by 2030 and initial indicators suggest we could exceed that – possibly reaching 40-45%. Oil and gas production will also likely increase in response to continued global demand. Overall, we are moving toward a more diversified and integrated energy portfolio. Once it reaches commercial scale, you will see Oman expanding oil, gas, renewables and green hydrogen. It is not a transition away from hydrocarbons but a strategic broadening to meet domestic needs and seize export opportunities in an evolving global energy landscape.
To what extent is Oman positioned to become a competitive player in the green hydrogen market?
AL LAMKI: Oman is well positioned to contribute to the global green hydrogen market thanks to its abundant solar and wind resources – both essential to producing truly green hydrogen. However, competitiveness hinges on addressing two key challenges: cost and efficiency.
Currently, the levelised cost of green hydrogen remains high – typically between $4 and $7 per kg – which limits large-scale adoption. Most of that cost comes from power generation, so improving the efficiency of solar, wind and electrolyser technologies is critical. If we push the cost closer to $2 per kg, Oman can be a serious player. There are also logistical challenges, particularly with transport and conversion losses. Some global projects have slowed or changed scope, but the sector remains promising. We are seeing a trend toward phased development – starting with smaller projects of 300-400 MW, eventually scaling up to multi-GW levels.
Where do you see the greatest potential for foreign direct investment (FDI) in the energy sector?
AL LAMKI: FDI is likely to come from countries facing energy security challenges – particularly in Asia and Europe. These countries are looking for stable, longterm sources of clean and conventional energy and Oman’s geopolitical stability, resource base and commitment to diversification make it an attractive option. What sets Oman apart is the strategic nature of this investment. For many investors, securing long-term energy access is a national priority. We are already seeing more engagement from governments rather than purely commercial actors, and that trend will likely grow.
In what ways can energy infrastructure be enhanced to support the target of generating 30% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030?
AL LAMKI: Oman must expand its electricity infrastructure to meet the 2030 renewable energy target. Today’s grid is designed for 11 GW of capacity but by 2030 we expect that figure to rise to 35-40 GW. This requires investment in transmission and distribution infrastructure. One important focus is developing common-use infrastructure, especially for green hydrogen and renewables. Instead of building separate pipelines or transmission lines for each project, we are encouraging shared infrastructure to lower costs and maximise efficiency. This will serve domestic and export needs and ensure scalability. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) will be key to this process. We are looking at PPP models to support grid expansion, particularly in the northern regions. Existing oil and gas transport infrastructure may be adapted to move hydrogen and desalinated water. Coordinated planning across electricity, water and hydrogen infrastructure will be essential – and shared investment models will make that feasible.
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