The Sustainable Energy Research Center Laboratory at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) was inaugurated on Sunday. This initiative is considered an important step towards strengthening the connection between scientific research, innovation, and national capacity building.
Inauguration Under the Supervision of the Minister of Energy and Minerals
The inauguration of this laboratory took place in the presence of Engineer Salim Nasser Al Aufi, the Minister of Energy and Minerals of Oman. This laboratory was established as a result of a strategic collaboration between Sultan Qaboos University and Oxy Oman, created with an investment of approximately 1.5 million Omani Rials over an area of 774 square meters.
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This center is a qualitative addition to national research infrastructure and serves as an integrated platform for the development of technologies and innovative solutions in the field of sustainable energy. The laboratory also contributes to enhancing research and technical capabilities and supports collaboration between scientific and industrial institutions.
Specialized Research Units and the “Kafa’a” Training Program
The laboratory includes a collection of specialized research units that focus on topics such as alternative fuels, energy materials, energy efficiency, thermal energy, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), and hydrogen. A modeling and simulation laboratory for smart grids and renewable energy systems, as well as a dedicated studio for training and capacity building, have also been established.
In this regard, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, representing the Sustainable Oman Center, and Sultan Qaboos University signed an agreement to implement the second round of the “Kafa’a” (Efficiency) training program for a duration of three years. This agreement was formalized with the signatures of Engineer Salim Nasser Al Aufi and His Excellency Dr. Fahd Al Julanda Al Said, the Deputy of the University.
The aim of this agreement is to expand the scope of professional competencies in the field of energy efficiency and to connect educational outputs with practical applications, entrepreneurship, and market needs. The program is set to train 275 participants in energy auditing and 20 individuals in measurement and verification, as well as support at least three national teams to develop solutions and services and establish specialized startups in the field of energy efficiency.
The Minister of Energy and Minerals emphasized the importance of investing in scientific research, innovation, and national capacity building as a strategic axis for the development of the energy sector and enhancing its competitiveness and sustainability. He highlighted the importance of synergizing efforts between government, academic, and private sector entities in developing innovative technologies and solutions.
Positive Impacts on the Labor Market and Environment
This laboratory is expected to provide a research and educational environment that helps researchers and applicants utilize specialized equipment and technologies and develop their scientific and practical skills. This initiative will facilitate the transfer of knowledge to practical applications that meet the needs of the energy sector.
The agreement related to the implementation of the second round of the “Kafa’a” training program will continue the efforts to train national talents in the field of energy efficiency and can contribute to creating new economic and job opportunities in the country. This initiative also aligns with Oman 2040 goals and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
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