MUSCAT – The first regulation focuses on risk management and continuity in the electricity and water sector, while the second addresses the water and sanitation sector. Both regulations are designed to enhance the ability of licensees to manage potential risks and ensure uninterrupted delivery of services under emergencies, natural disasters, cyber threats, and operational failures.

Key provisions require licensees to establish an integrated risk management and business continuity system within six months of the regulations’ implementation. They must develop, test, and periodically update comprehensive risk management plans and submit annual reports to the Authority, including risk assessments, results of exercises, and updates. Licensees are also required to allocate necessary technical and administrative resources and fully cooperate with APSR audits.

Administrative fines of up to RO 500,000 can be imposed for violations, with penalties doubled for repeated breaches.

The regulations form part of APSR’s broader efforts to ensure the sustainability and resilience of electricity, water, and sanitation services, enhance sector readiness against emergencies, promote transparency and accountability through reporting and audits, and encourage licensees to adopt global best practices in risk management and business continuity in line with Oman’s national development goals.