Muscat – Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) continues to strengthen its position as one of the region’s leading sustainable venues through a series of renewable energy and environmental initiatives aimed at improving energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions and supporting Oman’s transition towards a greener economy.

At the forefront of these initiatives is OCEC’s rooftop solar project, which represents a key pillar in the centre’s energy transformation journey. The integrated 4.6 megawatt-peak (MWp) system covers more than 16,000 square metres and includes over 8,000 high-efficiency solar panels. With an estimated annual production of around 7,000 megawatt-hours (MWh), the system provides nearly 25 per cent of the centre’s total electricity consumption.

The project, commissioned in May 2025, has contributed to reducing carbon emissions by more than 3,000 tonnes annually. In addition to generating clean energy, the system also improves the thermal performance of OCEC’s buildings by reducing internal temperatures and protecting the structural integrity of the rooftops.

As part of its broader energy efficiency efforts, OCEC has also implemented a solar water heating system through the installation of 250 solar thermal panels. The system covers approximately 90 per cent of the centre’s hot water requirements, reducing reliance on conventional electric heating systems and lowering the energy consumed in water heating operations.

OCEC’s sustainability role extends beyond infrastructure, as the centre continues to attract leading specialised events in sustainability and green energy. Among the most prominent are Oman Petroleum & Energy Show (OPES) and Oman Sustainability Week (OSW), organised by CONNECT and scheduled to take place from May 18 to 20, 2026. These events highlight the latest innovations in renewable energy, resource management and low-carbon technologies, while positioning Oman Sustainability Week as a key national platform for discussing environmental trends and developing sustainable solutions.

Such events contribute to strengthening dialogue among experts, policymakers and industry leaders, while supporting the transition towards a green economy in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, particularly in sustainability and energy diversification.

On the environmental sustainability front, OCEC has adopted an advanced approach to landscape design, transforming its green spaces into functional ecosystems that support natural balance. The centre has used drought-resistant native plants, helping to reduce water consumption and maintenance costs, while creating natural habitats for more than 100 species of birds and other living organisms. These green areas also help mitigate the urban heat island effect through natural cooling and enhance the visitor experience by providing an environment that supports wellbeing and productivity.

The centre’s initiatives also integrate agricultural elements into the urban landscape. More than 60 seasonal fruit trees have been planted, including mango, lemon, palm, pomegranate, apple and sidr trees. This model combines Oman’s agricultural identity with modern urban design, offering visitors a live educational experience that reflects the richness of the country’s agricultural heritage.