The project calls for the installation of 15 million gallons a day (g/d) of new capacity, expandable to 20 million g/d. First water is due by 1 July 2007. The selected developer will also acquire about 2.7 million g/d of existing capacity in the area. Bidders are required to submit outline financing proposals.

The team advising the National Economy Ministry on the project comprises Bank Muscat, Denton Wilde Sapte and the UK's Mott MacDonald(MEED 14:10:05). The scheme is part of a wider policy of the government to privatise power and water generation.

Bids are due on 27 March for the Barka/Rusayl independent water and power project (IWPP - MEED 4:11:05).

www.meed.com/powerwater