Oman leads regional shift toward sustainable agriculture with solar energy push
New initiative helps farmers cut power costs and adopt clean energy, as similar efforts emerge across the region.
OMAN – Oman has taken a bold step to make its agriculture sector more sustainable through a new national programme that promotes the use of solar energy on farms.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR), working with Nafath Renewable Energy Company and the Development Bank, has launched the “Solar Energy – Sustainable Harvest” initiative to help farmers replace traditional electricity with solar systems.
The programme supports Oman Vision 2040, which focuses on food security, environmental conservation, and economic diversification.
A ministry spokesperson said the plan aims to help farmers improve productivity while cutting operational costs. “This programme supports food security by helping farmers produce more while spending less on power,” the official said.
The initiative targets fruit and vegetable farms, greenhouses, and irrigation-based projects that rely heavily on power. It also seeks to reduce strain on the national grid by promoting cleaner energy use.
Eligible applicants must present proof of land ownership or usufruct rights, business registration, a site map, four recent electricity bills, and photos of the site.
Farmers who run their farms full-time can qualify for interest-free loans from the Development Bank, allowing them to install solar systems with minimal financial burden. According to the ministry, the programme will help farmers adopt climate-smart practices and improve long-term resource efficiency.
Regional focus on food security
Oman’s solar farming push comes as other countries in the Middle East are making similar efforts to secure food production and promote local agribusiness growth. In Iraq, a new US$100 million food processing plant has opened in Erbil, highlighting growing private investment in the agricultural sector.
The Megal Project, built on 366 acres, includes a slaughterhouse, shopping centre, wastewater treatment and animal control facilities, a waste incineration unit, and landscaped areas.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, who inaugurated the plant, described it as a major milestone for the region’s food system. “This project integrates livestock production, fodder supply, and animal trading – creating business partnerships, recycling opportunities, and more than 1,000 new jobs,” he said.
Both Oman’s solar energy programme and Iraq’s Megal Project share one key goal: building stronger and more efficient food systems that reduce costs for farmers while improving sustainability. Officials in Erbil said the project also reflects growing confidence in the region’s private sector.
The Kurdistan Regional Government’s Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources recently introduced policies to improve irrigation systems, reduce post-harvest losses, and expand access to modern farming tools.
Farmers in Erbil have welcomed the investment. “We have waited for a long time to see such projects take shape. This gives small farmers a chance to sell directly and earn a fair income,” said a local livestock trader.
As Oman leads with solar-powered farming and Iraq strengthens its food processing capacity, the region is signaling a broader commitment to cleaner, smarter, and more self-reliant agriculture.
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