The Salalah Free Zone (SFZ) in Oman has announced an agreement with America based precision equipment manufacturer Advanced Industries Inc to establish a solar PV module production facility in the country with 200 MW annual capacity.
The proposed factory will be located in SFZ, and will need an investment worth $75 million to be realized. Modules rolled out of the production line will meet the residential and commercial project development needs.
According to Oman News Agency (ONA), each module will have a power rating of 390W. The move brings in fresh investment in the country's solar energy sector, while diversifying industries present at the SFZ, added ONA. It also boosts public private partnership.
Back in July 2019, there were reports of the Salalah Free Zone (SFZ) signing agreements worth $80 million for 3 fabs at the zone, including for solar module manufacturing by a US based company.
SFZ is situated close to the Salalah Port and operated by Salalah Free Zone Company of ASYAD Group. It promises 0% import and re-export duties, and up to 30 years corporate tax holiday. Its location offers the benefit of key global markets being within 2 weeks sailing time, promise the owners.
Oman's Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), in August 2021, said it is in discussion with several international companies to establish green hydrogen and green ammonia projects in free zones at Duqm, Salalah and Sohar Industrial cities.