The project's scope calls for between 400-500 MW of power and 20 million-40 million gallons a day of desalinated water. No specific technology has been requested for the desalination element of the scheme, for which initial studies have been prepared by the UK's Mott MacDonald.

The plant will be the fourth IWPP developed in Oman since the launch of the government's fast-track privatisation programme. The other plants, all under construction, are at Al-Barka, Al-Kamil and Salalah. Oman's installed capacity stands at 2,300 MW, while demand is growing at an annual rate of between 4-5 per cent. The new plant is expected to meet rising demand from various petrochemicals projects in Sohar (Power & Water, MEED Special Report, 2:8:02, page 22).