The Sultanate of Oman is pursuing a comprehensive strategy to expand renewable energy, closely aligned with its “Oman Vision 2040.” This includes not only the development of domestic solar energy technology manufacturing but also the expansion of wind and solar power capacity, as well as ambitious plans to scale up green hydrogen production.
On the sidelines of the Advantage Oman Forum Sohar Port and Freezone, organized by Invest in Oman, a land lease agreement was signed with Chinese company JA Solar OM (FZC) SPC for the construction of a new solar manufacturing facility. This agreement marks an important step in enhancing Oman’s renewable energy infrastructure.
Oman Builds Domestic Solar Value Chain – Local Production of Cells and Modules
Chinese solar company JA Solar is building a production facility for solar cells and modules in Oman. With a total investment of USD 565 million and a site covering 32.5 hectares in the second phase of the Freezone, the project aims for an annual production capacity of 6 GW (6,000 MW) of solar cells and 3 GW (3,000 MW) of solar modules. Operations are scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2026. The project is expected to play a key role in advancing the energy transition and supporting the sustainability goals of Oman Vision 2040.
Fan Jingchao, General Manager of JA Solar OM (FZC) SPC, stated: “Our facility marks a significant advancement in the solar PV supply chain, integrating all key components from polysilicon to modules. The strategic location within SOHAR Freezone offers essential logistics and positions us in a rapidly growing renewable energy hub. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies, we aim to produce high-quality, affordable solar panels that enhance accessibility and attract global investment, while expanding our presence in key markets.”
Mohammed Al Shizawi, Acting CEO of the Sohar Freezone, emphasized: “This agreement cements SOHAR Freezone’s position as a prime investment destination with world-class infrastructure and strategic advantages. In response to high investor demand and with the first phase nearing full occupancy, the ongoing expansion of SOHAR Freezone is now underway to advance local solar manufacturing, reduce carbon emissions, and raise regional sustainability standards.”
About Oman Vision 2040 – Renewable Energy and Green Hydrogen
Oman is positioning itself as an emerging player in renewable energy and green hydrogen. The core objective of Oman Vision 2040 is to increase the share of renewable energy in the national energy mix to 30% by 2030, with the country aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
In green hydrogen alone, Oman aims for an annual production capacity of between 1 and 1.25 million metric tons by 2030. This requires significant investment in renewable energy, especially in large-scale solar and wind farms. According to the Omani Ministry of Energy, to support electrolyzer capacities of 8,000 to 10,000 MW, an additional 16,000 to 20,000 MW of new renewable energy generation capacity must be installed.
Through the establishment of the Sohar Freezone, Oman is creating the economic and infrastructural foundation necessary to meet its industrial policy objectives.
About the Sohar Freezone in Oman
The goal of the Sohar Freezone project is to diversify Oman’s economy, strengthen local supply chains, and unlock new investment opportunities critical to the nation’s economic growth.
By fostering synergies within an integrated framework of green production, logistics, and trade, the Sohar Freezone reaffirms its commitment to sustainable economic growth while positioning itself as an emerging hub in global trade. With 85% of Phase 1 already leased, Phase 2 is actively being developed to meet further industrial demand across 675 hectares. The government views this progress as a strong indicator of investor and partner confidence in the Freezone.
