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Oman faces critical energy challenges as conventional fossil fuel resources wane and population growth accelerates. A consensus emerges on the need for a 25-year Oman Energy Master Plan to address rising domestic energy demand and ensure energy security. This report updates progress on key recommendations from 2015.

Key Findings & Recommendations:

1. Renewable Energy: Clear targets, dedicated policies, and regulatory frameworks are essential for increasing renewable energy activity. Establishing a Ministry of Energy and promoting small-scale rooftop solar installations with official oversight are crucial steps. Hybrid power generation (solar, wind, diesel, gas) for remote homes is encouraged.

2. Energy Subsidies: The government should strategically reduce energy subsidies, adjusting cuts based on societal needs. Transparent examples of subsidy redirection are vital to gain public acceptance.

3. Energy Efficiency: National behavior change is needed to improve efficiency in homes, workplaces, and transport. A centralized authority with mandate over efficient energy use is recommended.

4. Research & Development (R&D): Improved industry-academia alignment is crucial for robust R&D ecosystems. Establishing research clusters, promoting PhD studies among Omanis, and creating 50,000 vocational jobs in two years are key initiatives.

5. Education & Job Market: The government should focus on regulation rather than service provision in education. Addressing the mismatch between higher education and job market demands is essential. An executive authority with integrated strategy responsibilities is proposed.

Additional Focus Areas:

- Water security through renewable desalination.
- Green home building codes emphasizing economic, energy, sustainability, and water efficiency.
- Immediate implementation of renewables through a comprehensive action plan.
- Centralizing energy policy under a single authority.