MUSCAT : The 22nd Annual Conference of the Energy Regulators Regional Association (ERRA) began today, May 5, at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center.

The landmark event marks the first time the ERRA conference is being held in the Middle East, highlighting the Sultanate’s growing influence in the global energy regulatory landscape. Organised by the Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR), the conference gathers over 250 international experts, academics, and representatives from ERRA member organizations and global institutions.

Held under the theme ‘Progressing Energy Transition via Effective Policies and Regulation’, the two-day conference (May 5–6) provides a platform for global dialogue on energy transformation, with a focus on clean energy investments, regional cooperation, and regulatory reform.

In his opening remarks, His Excellency Dr. Mansour Talib Al Hinai, Chairman of APSR highlighted Oman’s strategic progress in the renewable energy sector, noting that four renewable energy plants with a total capacity of 1,550 megawatts have already been commissioned. Additionally, eight new solar and wind energy projects are underway, expected to add between 1,500 and 1,800 megawatts to the national grid.

Chair of the ERRA Andrijana Nelkova Chuchuk commended Oman’s efforts, calling the Sultanate a “strategic partner capable of influencing the global energy governance system,” particularly in energy market management, interoperability regulation, and investment stimulation.

The conference agenda includes a series of technical sessions and bilateral meetings, aimed at enhancing cooperation between governments, regulators, and private sector players. Discussions will centre on key themes such as energy sustainability in the Gulf, grid integration challenges, regional market cooperation, and the future of renewable energy sources.

Each session is designed to foster interactive dialogue, combining expert presentations with panel discussions to identify best practices and regulatory strategies for advancing the global energy transition.

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