From Desert Conditions to Grid Infrastructure: ABB Supports Oman Energy Storage Projects with 36kV D
Time:2026-08-20 Browse: 0
Published: August 20, 2026
ABB is supporting the development of two major energy storage projects in Oman by supplying Safe 36kV ring main units (RMUs) for the Ibri and Duqm energy storage power stations.
The projects form part of Oman’s efforts to expand renewable energy integration and strengthen the flexibility and reliability of its power grid. ABB’s medium-voltage distribution equipment is being used to connect the energy storage systems with the external distribution network, providing functions for power connection, distribution, switching and protection.
ABB Safe 36kV RMUs for Oman Energy Storage Projects
The two projects are located in Ibri in northwestern Oman and Duqm on the country’s eastern coast. Each energy storage power station has a planned capacity of 500 MW.
The Ibri project is being delivered under the general contracting responsibility of China Electric Power Technology & Equipment Co., Ltd., while the Duqm project is being contracted by NARI Technology Co., Ltd.
For both projects, ABB is supplying Safe 36kV ring main units as part of the medium-voltage electrical distribution system.
The RMUs provide the interface between the energy storage system and the external power network. Their main functions include electrical connection, power distribution, switching and protection, helping maintain stable operation of the medium-voltage network around the storage facilities.
Designed for Harsh Desert Environments
One of the major challenges for electrical equipment at the two sites is the harsh desert climate.
Summer temperatures in the project areas can exceed 55°C, while dust and sand can create additional challenges for medium-voltage electrical equipment. These conditions place high demands on insulation systems, enclosure protection, thermal performance and long-term reliability.
ABB's SafeRing and SafePlus portfolio is designed for secondary power distribution applications, including renewable energy installations and harsh weather conditions. The equipment uses a sealed enclosure to protect internal live components and switching functions from environmental influences such as dust, humidity and foreign objects. ABB states that the sealed pressure system is designed for an operating lifetime of more than 30 years.
For the Oman projects, this type of enclosed medium-voltage switchgear provides an important layer of protection for the electrical distribution system operating in a demanding environment.
Compact Medium-Voltage Distribution for Energy Storage
Energy storage projects require reliable electrical connections between battery systems, power conversion equipment and the grid.
The compact design of ABB Safe 36kV equipment allows the switchgear to be integrated into energy storage system configurations while reducing the space required for medium-voltage distribution equipment.
ABB's SafeRing/SafePlus platform supports applications in distribution networks, renewable energy, industry and infrastructure, with configurations available for different switching and protection requirements. The 36kV product family is designed and tested according to relevant IEC requirements.
For large-scale battery energy storage systems, reliable medium-voltage switching and protection are essential because the storage system must repeatedly transfer power between the grid and energy storage units.
Accelerated Delivery for a Time-Critical Project
In addition to technical requirements, the Oman projects faced tight delivery schedules.
According to ABB, its China power distribution business coordinated manufacturing and supply-chain resources to address the project's urgent delivery requirements. Through its manufacturing and delivery processes, ABB reports that the delivery cycle was reduced by 50%, helping the project meet its required schedule.
Fast delivery can be particularly important for large energy infrastructure projects, where delays in medium-voltage switchgear can affect equipment integration, commissioning and overall project completion.
Supporting Renewable Energy Integration in Oman
Oman has been increasing its focus on renewable energy and energy diversification as part of its long-term development strategy.
Large-scale energy storage can help address the variability of renewable generation by providing additional flexibility for the power system. ABB notes that battery energy storage systems can support grid flexibility when variable renewable energy sources such as solar and wind are integrated into the electricity network.
The Ibri and Duqm projects therefore represent more than individual battery storage installations. They are also part of the wider development of infrastructure needed to accommodate a growing share of renewable electricity.
By connecting energy storage systems to the medium-voltage distribution network, equipment such as ring main units, switchgear, protection devices and power conversion systems becomes an important part of the overall grid infrastructure.
What This Means for Industrial Power Distribution
The Oman projects highlight several important trends for the global electrical and industrial automation market.
First, the expansion of renewable power is creating greater demand for battery energy storage systems and medium-voltage distribution equipment.
Second, energy infrastructure in regions with extreme climates requires electrical equipment that can operate reliably under high temperatures, dust and other environmental stresses.
Third, project schedules are becoming increasingly important as large renewable energy and energy storage projects involve multiple international suppliers and system integrators.
For industrial electrical equipment suppliers, EPC contractors and system integrators, the combination of medium-voltage switchgear, energy storage, renewable energy and harsh-environment operation is likely to remain an important area of demand across the Middle East and other emerging energy markets.
ABB's involvement in the Ibri and Duqm projects demonstrates how established medium-voltage distribution technologies can be integrated into large-scale energy storage infrastructure and deployed in challenging operating environments.
