Oman Advances Geothermal Energy Study of Natural Hot Springs

Nama Power and Water Procurement Company (Nama PWP) has announced a consultancy tender to assess the technical and commercial feasibility of harnessing geothermal energy in northern Oman.

The tender, titled Provision of Techno-Economic Consultancy Services for the Hot Springs Geothermal Project – Phase 2 and 3, builds on an initial study launched in April 2025, covering locations between Fanja in Wilayat Bidbid and Al Ansab in Wilayat Bausher.

The latest phase will involve geological and geochemical investigations, deep geophysical surveys, geothermal resource assessments and three-dimensional modelling to better understand the energy potential beneath these locations.

The consultancy will also evaluate suitable development sites, undertake preliminary economic assessments and prepare a temperature-gradient drilling programme. An optional third phase includes drilling supervision, further resource evaluation and detailed feasibility studies to determine whether geothermal energy could be developed commercially.

The deadline for submitting consultancy bids is 30 November 2026.

Exploring Oman's Untapped Geothermal Potential

Oman is home to several natural hot springs, including Ain Al Kasfa in Al Rustaq, where water temperatures can exceed 45°C, and Ain Al Thawwarah in Nakhl.

Previous research by Sultan Qaboos University has identified potential geothermal reservoirs with temperatures ranging from approximately 70°C to 174°C, suggesting opportunities for further exploration.

Unlike solar and wind energy, which depend on weather conditions, geothermal energy can potentially provide a continuous source of renewable power. Depending on the temperature and characteristics of the resource, it may also support industrial heating, cooling and other direct-use applications.

However, the commercial viability of Oman's geothermal resources remains under investigation. Detailed subsurface assessments and drilling studies will be essential to determine whether the available temperatures, reservoir conditions and development costs can support economically sustainable projects.

Supporting Oman's Energy Diversification

The initiative forms part of Oman's broader efforts to explore alternative energy technologies and strengthen its renewable energy portfolio.

In 2022, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals entered into a collaboration with global energy technology company SLB, alongside the Oman Investment Authority, to assess the country's geothermal potential.

The ongoing investigations could provide valuable insights into how geothermal resources might complement existing solar and wind developments, support industrial decarbonisation and contribute to Oman's net-zero emissions ambition for 2050.

While the project remains at the feasibility assessment stage, it represents an important step towards understanding the potential role of geothermal energy in Oman's long-term energy transition.

As Oman continues to expand its renewable energy ambitions, geothermal exploration offers another opportunity to investigate how the country's natural resources can support a more diversified and resilient energy future.

Oman advances geothermal energy study of natural hot springs - Oman Observer