mission is to be Oman’s solar energy
partner, a partner in developing jobs
and offering training opportunities for
students and SMEs.”
Explaining the potential of the
programme for nurturing Omani
talent in innovation and renewable
energy technology he said: “Although
solar deployment is GlassPoint’s
main focuses in Oman, currently for
enhanced oil recovery, GlassPoint also
contributes to the social and economic
development through the establishment
of the GlassPoint Innovation Spur. The
programme aims to nurture Omani
talent in innovation and renewable
energy technology through a guided
programme led by mentors and
experts from the industry. GlassPoint
is also accepting applications from
seasoned industry experts to equip
participants with valuable skillsets
through coaching. The programme aims
to provide participants the support
through knowledge development,
internships, research training and
mentorship programmes.”GlassPoint is focussed on building
a platform for renewable energy
technology that boosts invention, creates
jobs and training opportunities for the
Omani business community. Through
the power of effective partnership,
GlassPoint has the ability to provide the
blueprint for a low-carbon future, as
well as empower partners to take action
on renewables-related initiatives.Talking about the contribution to SMEs
and in-country development, Al Sariri
said: “GlassPoint is committed to hiring
and developing talent and strengthening
Oman’s position as a global hub for solar
energy. As the Sultanate continues toencourage its entrepreneurial culture,
the GlassPoint’s Innovation Spur
provides participants with the support
from mentors and industry experts
they require to turn their innovations
into real life businesses. This platform
serves as an opportunity for locals
and residents of Oman to contribute in
solving water management and energy
challenges in the Sultanate.”To further develop the renewables
sector, it is essential to increase the
numbers of Omani SMEs. Innovation
Spur contributes to the national
economic diversification strategy,
while also positioning the Sultanate as
a progressive market for renewable
energy and sustainability practices.
The company focuses on nourishing
the spirit of innovation and creativity
among Omani talent by promoting
research culture.He adds, “Developing the Omani
workforce and creating job opportunities
for local contractors and small
businesses is part of GlassPoint’s
commitment to In-Country Value.
Through the Miraah project being built
with partners Petroleum Development
Oman, GlassPoint has procured more
than 40 per cent of the required goods
and services directly from Oman. In
addition to collaborating with local
companies, GlassPoint took advantage of
its position as a leader in solar for the oil
and gas sector to transfer manufacturing
knowledge to the Sultanate. The
company transferred the knowledge
associated with manufacturing the
aluminum ribs, an integral component
used in the Miraah project, from
suppliers in South East Asia to Oman
by working closely with the National
Aluminum Products Company.”GlassPoint is also committed to
developing local talent for the solar
industry in Oman. Today, Omani
professionals constitute 60 per cent
of the workforce at the company,
including engineers and management, a
significant feat given the early stages of
the industry in Oman.Badar Al Sariri
Senior Manager of Project Development and
Member of GlassPoint Innovation Spur Steering Board