AtkinsRéalis, an engineering and nuclear services company, worked with Oman’s Ministry of Energy and Minerals to host the “Powering the Future: Oman Electricity Innovation Showcase” on 10 December 2025. The event brought together senior figures from government, utilities, regulators and industry to discuss how Oman can meet rising electricity demand linked to AI-driven economic growth. Discussions focused on combining nuclear power, renewables, grid upgrades and energy storage, in line with Oman’s target to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
“A secure and sustainable power system is central to our industrial strategy and economic ambitions, which includes recently announced initiatives like the Oman Digital Triangle, a gigawatt scale group of three AI superclusters under the National Digital Infrastructure Roadmap. This collaboration highlights technologies and delivery models that can help Oman diversify its energy mix, enhance grid resilience, and accelerate progress toward our national targets,” said H.E. Mohsin Hamed Saif Al Hadhrami, Undersecretary, Ministry of Energy and Minerals, Oman.
The programme examined routes to cut carbon emissions, improve grid reliability for AI-led growth, and support economic development. Sessions explored how nuclear power can work alongside renewable energy to provide stability in Oman’s future electricity system. Speakers also covered regional grid links, financing models, hydrogen, and policy design. Participants took part in grid operation simulations and reviewed international examples of nuclear project delivery and refurbishment.
“Reliable, clean, baseload power is the anchor for a modern grid, serving both people and a data-driven economy. Nuclear provides the dispatchable, low-carbon capacity that helps Oman scale renewables without sacrificing stability or affordability. The question is how to design the right mix, attract and sequence investments, drive new industry capacity and growth, and build the institutional capability to deliver at pace,” said Todd Smith, Vice President, Marketing and Business Development, CANDU Energy Inc.
The event took place as electricity demand in Oman continues to rise by 6.1% each year, with power use across the MENA region expected to increase by 50% by 2035. Data centre capacity in the Gulf could reach 3.3 GW within five years, while the sector may grow to $9.5 billion by 2030. Discussions addressed the need for practical solutions that support energy security, economic strength and climate resilience as electricity demand and cooling needs increase. Speakers highlighted the role of careful planning and a balanced supply mix that includes renewables, grid technology and nuclear power.
“Our ambition with this showcase was to rise above the noise and illuminate innovative pathways grounded in evidence, strategic choices, and informed trade-offs. Today, cities, industries, and digital ecosystems converge on a singular imperative: abundant, resilient, and clean energy. In partnership with the Ministry, we have articulated a forward-looking roadmap that harmonizes renewables, advanced storage, and grid-forming technologies with proven nuclear solutions, empowering Oman to accelerate near-term growth while steadfastly advancing toward a net-zero future.” said Matthew Tribe, Global Market Lead, Buildings & Places, AtkinsRéalis.
AtkinsRéalis brings global experience in nuclear and grid design, supported by a strong regional presence and a workforce of 7,000 nuclear specialists. Its work includes decades of experience delivering CANDU reactors. The company plans to continue working with public and private partners in the region to develop secure, low-carbon energy systems that support long-term growth and resilient infrastructure.