Project cargo for the $1.6 billion polysilicon production complex in Sohar Freezone is arriving rapidly, signaling progress toward the ambitious deadlines for this high-stakes venture. The plant, being developed by United Solar Polysilicon (FZC) SPC, is set to produce 100,000 tonnes of polysilicon annually. This capacity will make it one of the largest in the Middle East, contributing to the region’s growing prominence in green energy industries.
The Oman Investment Authority (OIA), through its Future Fund Oman (FFO), has injected $156 million into the project, reflecting the country’s commitment to diversifying its industrial base and supporting sustainable energy developments. This financial boost underscores the strategic importance of the facility in positioning Oman as a global player in the polysilicon market, a key material for the solar industry.
C Steinweg Oman, the operator of Sohar Port’s general cargo terminal, recently confirmed the discharge of several large project cargo pieces. The cargo, consisting of massive columns, arrived via a seagoing barge and was carefully offloaded at the terminal’s heavy-duty berth. These components are being readied for transport to the construction site, with further shipments expected in the coming weeks.
Adding to the excitement, Shuangliang International, a Chinese specialist in energy equipment, has commenced shipments of essential materials for the project from its Jiangyin factory. Shuangliang, known for supplying advanced solar material manufacturing systems, is delivering polysilicon reduction furnaces, hydrogen production equipment, and other vital hardware. The company, which has already secured a $58.3 million contract for this project, hailed the milestone as a major leap forward for both the company and Oman’s clean energy landscape.
Shuangliang also announced that it had made history by becoming the first Chinese firm to land an export order for hydrogen electrolyzers, which will play a critical role in the green hydrogen infrastructure for the project. “This marks a significant step for us internationally,” Shuangliang said, noting its pride in supporting the global transition to clean energy.
United Solar Polysilicon’s Sohar Freezone facility is expected to come online next year, opening the door to further investments in solar panel production and integrated chip manufacturing, reinforcing Oman’s ambitions in the global electronics and renewable energy industries.
