Muscat: ABA Oman International School has taken a groundbreaking step towards sustainability with the inauguration of a large-scale solar PV installation on its campus. This pioneering project, the first in Oman based on a lease asset agreement model, marks a significant milestone in the school’s long term strategy to reduce environmental impact and lead the transition to renewable energy.

With a production capacity of 758 kWp, the solar plant is projected to generate more than 1.3 million kilowatt hours annually, covering 50 percent of ABA’s electricity needs. Currently, the school consumes approximately 2.5 million kilowatt hours of electricity each year. This initiative will significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and demonstrates ABA’s commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

The project was delivered in partnership with Energentus Oman and officially launched during ABA’s unique celebration of ‘World Earth Day,’ marking Earth Day and World Environment Day. The project was launched by Mr Craig Williamson, Head of School, and Hamza Kambal, Operations Manager at Energentus, together with ABA’s Sustainability Coordinator Ruairidh MacKenzie, faculty coordinator Ciara Gillespie, and current EcoSoc student leaders Angela, Nara, and Alex.

“This project is a powerful reflection of our commitment to sustainability and shows how learning at ABA extends far beyond the classroom,” said Craig Williamson, Head of School. “We are incredibly proud of our students, past and present, who have shaped this legacy of environmental action. It stands as a clear example of how schools can take tangible steps to combat climate change while preparing the next generation to be thoughtful, environmentally responsible global citizens.”

The vision for the solar project began in 2016, when then Grade 5 student Yousof Zarrabi (Class of 2024) proposed the idea as part of a sustainability project. It was further developed by student leaders including Alix Dupont and Kiana Andres (both Class of 2023), and brought to life through the ongoing dedication of ABA’s Environmental Society (EcoSoc).

“This is our sustainability vision in action,” said Ruairidh MacKenzie. “It reflects student agency, long term thinking, and a strong institutional commitment. To witness an idea that began with a Year 5 student evolve into the largest school based solar installation in Oman is truly inspiring. It shows that meaningful change is possible and that our students are capable of leading it. We are grateful to the Board of Directors and the school leadership for their steadfast support in bringing this important vision to life.”

In addition to environmental benefits, the installation serves as a live learning platform, offering educational opportunities across all grade levels on the science, technology, and social impact of renewable energy.

ABA Oman International School is Muscat’s leading International Baccalaureate (IB) School, offering a full IB continuum from Early Childhood to the Diploma Programme. Established in 1987, ABA is renowned for academic excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to sustainability, service learning, and global citizenship. To discover The ABA Way, visit www.abaoman.org.