The Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) is set to become a pioneer in renewable energy by installing a 4.6-megawatt-peak rooftop solar power system, which is expected to generate over 7,000 megawatt-hours of electricity annually.
The OCEC's solar rooftop project will serve as a beacon for sustainable infrastructure in Oman, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency. This partnership with TotalEnergies signifies a broader focus on sustainability, not only for the center but for the entire region. In addition to environmental benefits, the project will create local jobs and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
OCEC Advances Sustainability
The iconic Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) has announced an ambitious initiative to generate solar energy, aligning with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik's vision of a sustainable future for Oman.
Image: Collected
Said Salim al Shanfari, CEO of OCEC, highlighted this initiative at recent panels hosted by Petroleum Development Oman (FD Ignite Week) and The Business Year (Oman Business Forum). He emphasized that this investment aligns with the company's strategic focus on impactful and profitable projects that contribute to Oman's national sustainability agenda.
Significant Solar Energy Initiative
The project's crowning achievement is the installation of a 4.6-megawatt-peak rooftop solar power system by TotalEnergies Renewables DG MEA. This cutting-edge solar solution will contribute to the OCEC's goal of achieving net-zero energy consumption.
The solar power system is expected to generate over 7,000 megawatt-hours of electricity annually and improve the center's thermal and energy efficiency by over 20%. This will significantly reduce the center's carbon footprint and set a positive example for sustainable development in the region.
The partnership with TotalEnergies, a global energy company committed to energy transition and renewable energy solutions, will accelerate OCEC's journey towards sustainability. Beyond solar panel installation, TotalEnergies will provide an integrated approach to energy efficiency for the center.
The partnership will also involve the implementation of smart grid technology, incorporating sensors, actuators, and advanced communication systems to optimize performance, efficiency, and operational functionalities. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2024, positioning OCEC as a model of sustainable infrastructure in Oman.
Innovative Energy Management and Optimization
In addition to installing solar panels, the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) is implementing state-of-the-art energy management technologies, as reported by the Omani Observer in April. TotalEnergies Renewables DG MEA has developed an energy optimization framework that integrates smart grid technology and advanced monitoring systems.
This advanced energy management system enables real-time monitoring and optimization of energy consumption, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. By implementing this innovative solution, OCEC is setting a new standard for energy management in the region. This approach not only reduces costs but also contributes to Oman's broader energy transition goals.
Benefits of the Solar Energy Initiative for the Local Community
The solar energy project at OCEC is expected to generate over 7,000 megawatt-hours of electricity annually, reducing the center's reliance on non-renewable energy sources and significantly lowering its carbon footprint. This will benefit the local community by promoting sustainable energy practices.
The project aims to educate the public about renewable energy practices and serve as a model for sustainable development. By creating local job opportunities during construction, installation, and maintenance phases, the project also contributes to the local economy. As more businesses and research institutions in Oman embrace sustainability, OCEC's solar power initiative positions the country at the forefront of renewable energy adoption.
Prospects and Sustainability Goals
The solar energy project aligns with OCEC's long-term sustainability plan, ensuring the continued operation of its remaining refinery units. It also contributes to Oman Vision 2040, which prioritizes sustainable development and environmental protection.
In addition to reducing operational costs, OCEC's solar energy project aligns with the national plan to achieve net-zero energy consumption and carbon emissions by 2050. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, this project is a significant step towards OCEC's sustainability goals and serves as an inspiration for other organizations in the Middle East to embrace renewable energy solutions.