Summary

UTAS worked with Majis Industrial Services through the EJAAD platform to explore the potential of utilizing waste heat generated from industrial processes at Sohar Port. Factories at the port currently discharge 500,000 m³/hr of return cooling water with a +10°C temperature increase into the sea. This warm water stream and its elevation difference represent untapped value that can be captured before being discharged.

The main objective of this project was to use waste heat from Sohar Port’s industrial activities to power an advanced desalination system, enabling the production of freshwater for port operations. This would reduce dependence on limited freshwater sources and lower the environmental impact of industrial cooling processes.

The study identified commercially viable solutions for capturing and reusing waste heat from Sohar Port’s industrial cooling processes. These solutions offer multiple benefits, including a reduction in emissions and mitigation of thermal pollution affecting marine ecosystems. The initiative also enhances water sustainability by enabling localized freshwater generation. Furthermore, it promotes technology transfer that supports Oman’s progress toward Net Zero and a circular economy, while aligning closely with the goals of Oman Vision 2040 through the sustainable use of industrial resources and the encouragement of innovative practices.

Research Team Members:

Principal Investigator:

Mohammed Al Saidi - University of Technology and Applied Sciences