The global energy sector stands on the brink of transformation as renewable technologies gradually supplant traditional energy sources. A key highlight in this shift is the recent award of a supply contract to JinkoSolar, a prominent photovoltaic technology provider, by ACME Group for Oman’s 487.5MW green hydrogen project. This venture underscores the evolving dynamics of the photovoltaic hydrogen sector and aligns with the broader trend toward decarbonization.
Oman, with its high solar irradiation levels—boasting an average of 2,300 sunshine hours annually—presents a strategic location for harnessing solar energy efficiently. In desert landscapes, where temperatures can soar above 50°C, JinkoSolar’s N-type Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon) modules exhibit superior performance. These modules are equipped with a high bifacial ratio of 85%, optimizing energy yield in environments characterized by high reflectivity, such as sandy terrains. The increased energy yield—ranging between 3% and 5% over standard bifacial modules—positions JinkoSolar as a competitive player in optimizing energy generation in harsh climatic conditions.
While Oman’s challenging environment demands robust technology, JinkoSolar’s N-type TOPCon modules deliver features like low degradation rates and excellent resistance to UV radiation, wind, hail, and sand. The technology offers a promising solution to environmental challenges that affect solar module longevity and efficiency. A testament to their innovation is their bifacial double-glass design, which not only ensures a 30-year linear power warranty but also contributes to an 8% reduction in the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE).
The project’s first phase, located in Oman’s Duqm Special Economic Zone, aims to generate 100,000 tons of green ammonia annually—setting a precedent for scaling up operations to produce 1.2 million tons per year. This progression promises significant impact on the green hydrogen industry, particularly for hard-to-abate sectors such as heavy industrial operations. As global markets increasingly pivot toward sustainable practices, technology like JinkoSolar’s TOPCon modules offers scalable solutions capable of meeting decarbonization goals.
Furthermore, the industry’s broader context highlights the crucial role of technological optimization in countering rising temperatures and fluctuating irradiation metrics—challenges that are exacerbated by climate change. Despite the complexities of balancing initial setup costs with operational efficiency, advancements in photovoltaic technology offer paths for reducing lifecycle costs, evidenced by JinkoSolar’s strategy of leveraging efficiency and economies of scale.
