Three consortiums led by prominent global utilities have submitted proposals for the development of two major Independent Power Projects (IPPs) at Ibri and Sohar in Oman, a report said.

The consortiums include Engie (formerly known as GDF Suez), Marubeni Corporation, and Mitsui & Co, said Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP), according to the Oman Observer report.

“Proposals in response to the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development of two IPPs at Ibri and Sohar (for Tender No 8 / 2014), were received from the interested parties on August 30, 2015. The proposals were opened in OPWP’s office at 11:00 hrs on August 30 in the presence of representatives of the interested parties,” said OPWP in a statement.

The two power plants have a combined net capacity between 2,500 – 2,650 MW at reference site conditions. Natural gas will be the primary fuel for electricity generation at either plant, with fuel oil used as a back-up option.

The successful bidder will receive a licence to develop, own and operate the two power plants and associated facilities. The full capacity is expected to available by April 1, 2018, the report said.