Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC) marked the groundbreaking of the first- of-its-kind Masirah Island Interconnection Project last month.

The project aims to ensure continuous improvement in the electricity transmission sector’s efficiency by applying best practices and adopting the latest technologies and innovations, reported the Oman News Agency (ONA).

The scope of work includes the construction of the 132/33 kV Masirah Island Grid Station, a 132 kV subsea cable spanning across 25 km, a 132 kV underground cable running 9 km long, as well as establishing transmission network in Masirah island.

The project will address the increasing demand for energy and increase in consumption, thereby improving the quality of public services and supporting the local community, stated the report.

The project, which is estimated to cost around RO72 million ($186 million), will utilise advanced technologies, it added.

OETC is also focusing on ensuring the efficiency of the 132 kV overhead lines spanning over 60 km to link the 400/132 kV Mahout station with the Masirah Grid Station, said its CEO Engineer Saleh Nasser Al Rumhi at the groundbreaking ceremony held under the patronage of Minister of Energy and Minerals Engineer Salim Nasser Al Aufi.

One of the OETC’s most important strategic investments, Masirah Island interconnection project will play a strategic role in achieving the Oman’s energy transformation plan.

Furthermore, the project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 80,000 tonnes annually to contribute to achieving the Sultanate of Oman’s Net-Zero emissions by 2050.