KEC's price was 1.4 per cent lower than the next best bid by Larsen & Toubro, also of India, which submitted offers ranging from RO 41.8 million-45.4 million ($107 million-116.4 million). Three companies submitted single prices, while the remaining five bidders offered a range of quotes. The contract calls for the construction of two 220/132-kV gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) substations, at Sohar and Muladha, and about 225 kilometres of overhead transmission line.

Bids are due on 21 June for a contract to supervise construction on the project. Belgrade-based Energoprojekt, the UK's Mott MacDonaldand Universal Consulting Engineering (Oman) are among those to have picked up tender documents. The port and industrial area development at Sohar has been making progress, with both the pipeline and pressure reduction terminal contracts awarded in May (MEED 4:6:04).