The Ibri Solar Independent Power Project (IPP) in Oman has achieved a major milestone with the successful completion of tests to support remote operation. This 500 MW capacity project, also known as Ibri II Solar IPP, is currently the largest grid-connected utility-scale solar power scheme in operation in the Sultanate of Oman.
Managed by the Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC), the Ibri II Solar IPP is owned by the Shams Ad-Dhahirah Generating Company (SDGC), which is a partnership between ACWA Power, Gulf Investment Corporation (GIC), and Alternative Energy Projects Co (AEPC).
By successfully completing all required tests for remote control of generation, OETC has achieved a significant breakthrough in the stability, reliability, and sustainability of the country’s electricity grid. This advancement is instrumental in meeting national carbon neutrality goals.
OETC’s Load Despatch Centre (LDC) in Muscat is responsible for remotely operating the Ibri II Solar IPP, similar to other power generation plants across Oman. The LDC, located at OETC’s headquarters in Mawaleh, serves as a centralized facility for operational coordination and dispatch activities. Additionally, a regional control centre in Salalah manages operations in Dhofar Governorate. This integrated infrastructure is vital for ensuring safe, secure, reliable, and cost-effective transmission and dispatch of electricity.
The Ibri II Solar IPP plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and meeting the energy needs of approximately 50,000 homes at peak generation capacity. Annually, it offsets around 340,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. The plant commenced operations in November 2021.
With this successful implementation of remote operation, the Ibri II Solar IPP sets an example for harnessing renewable energy on a large scale while bolstering the stability and sustainability of Oman’s electricity grid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Ibri II Solar IPP?
The Ibri II Solar IPP is a 500 MW capacity solar power project located in the Al Dhahirah Governorate of Oman. It is the largest grid-connected utility-scale solar power scheme currently in operation in the country.
2. Who owns the Ibri II Solar IPP?
The project is owned by the Shams Ad-Dhahirah Generating Company (SDGC), a partnership between ACWA Power, Gulf Investment Corporation (GIC), and Alternative Energy Projects Co (AEPC).
3. What is the significance of the Ibri II Solar IPP’s remote operation?
The remote operation of the Ibri II Solar IPP is a significant milestone that enhances the stability, reliability, and sustainability of Oman’s electricity grid. It also contributes to the nation’s carbon neutrality goals.
4. How is the Ibri II Solar IPP remotely operated?
The Ibri II Solar IPP is remotely operated by the Oman Electricity Transmission Company’s (OETC) Load Despatch Centre (LDC) in Muscat. The LDC serves as a centralized facility for coordinating and dispatching electricity generation across the country.
5. What are the environmental benefits of the Ibri II Solar IPP?
At peak generation capacity, the Ibri II Solar IPP generates renewable electricity that can power around 50,000 homes. It also offsets approximately 340,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
Leave a Reply