The initiative is widely believed to be a pioneering national digital transformation project, with smart meters set to replace mechanical meters. It is consistent with the Sultanate’s socioeconomic development strategy, Oman Vision 2040. The aim of the strategy is to keep up with global developments and ever-changing technology in order to provide Omani citizens with efficient electricity-related services.

In an interview with Mazoon Electricity Company S.A.O.C., we talked about their synergistic collaboration with Iskraemeco and exchanged views on the most recent market trends, expectations, project executions and overall feedback.

First and foremost, would you mind sharing some thoughts on your visit to Iskraemeco’s headquarters in Kranj and your overall impression of Slovenia?

Slovenia abounds in natural beauty; it is enchanting and charming. Very different from Oman, of course, much smaller but nature here is so serene. We were also impressed by the warm welcome and harmoniously balanced working environment we noticed as soon as we entered the office.

Moving now to smart energy management, could you walk me through the current Omani market needs?

In Oman, the current movement is paving the way for smart metering, and there is a high level of intensity in terms of meter rollouts for 2025 and beyond. The main goal is to make the grids much smarter, and the
processes smoother and more efficient.

As you know, the competition is fierce. What were the factors that influenced your decision to choose Iskraemeco?

Surely, the competition is tough. We have actually analyzed providers on the basis of the benefits they deliver, and we discovered that Iskraemeco was able to provide everything we need. The single-phase and three-phase AM550 meters and communication technologies deliver greater value for lower costs. The flexibility of adapting the technologies to different networks was also huge plus. During our visit, we gained valuable insights on the European market and we also heard from other utilities about the high added value and successful operation of Iskraemeco’s meters. This was further proof that we made the right decision.

Speaking of added value, would you care to elaborate on that?

Absolutely. Iskraemeco provides the required data in a transparent and accurate manner. Additionally, it offers top-quality technical support, particularly after-sales support. Whenever something happened or we had a query, the team was there to assist and guide us through the process of overcoming the obstacles.

What did you gain from this collaboration, particularly as regards to end users?

With Iskraemeco’s assistance, we were able to reach the customers and understand their needs much better. The products and the data we gained enabled us to act from a different aspect. However, based on the current experience and with future collaboration, we can positively influence the end users, helping them to become more aware of their consumption, join the smart transformation journey, and act sustainably.

Regarding the topic of market awareness, could you please offer more insight?

Smart metering is the next big thing, and we need to be ready for it. We believe that with Iskraemeco’s meters, we can achieve proper reading, accuracy, troubleshooting, or resolve any incidents on the field with greater ease and efficiency. As a result, we will be able to provide our customers with what they need and assist them at a faster rate.

How did the FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing) and training go, were your expectations met?

The procedure was thorough and well-organized. From A to Z, we covered a wide range of parameters. We talked in detail about testing, product quality assurance, training, and other activities. Overall, it was a positive experience, and all our expectations were met.

What about future collaboration, and what are the next steps?

So far, we have had a positive experience with insightful results that have allowed us to get closer to our customers. In the upcoming tenders, the Omani market has many goals, one of them being to install 1.5
million meters. To achieve this, we should be quick to react to market demands and requirements and it is good to know that Iskraemeco’s system is adequate and will live up to our requirements. In short, we are
eager to seize any opportunities that present themselves in the near future.

Would you like to share any final thoughts?

Surly, the working environment at Iskraemeco was a great blend of older and younger generations, and it clearly demonstrated a high level of professionalism, helpfulness, and positivity. What we noticed was the diverse range of nationalities, and expertise to convey ideas and experience. The premises are well-designed, and we certainly enjoyed our visit. We felt very welcome and we enjoyed developing relationships with others through personal and professional interaction.