ACWA Power, Bapco Energies Sign JDA to Develop 2.8 GW Solar Power Project with Large-Scale Storage in Saudi Arabia

ACWA Power and Bapco Energies have signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to develop a major solar power plant integrated with large-scale battery energy storage in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. The agreement was formalized during the Saudi–Bahraini Coordination Council meeting held in December 2025.

Under the JDA, the companies will collaborate on a solar project with a planned capacity of up to 2.8 GW, to be developed across multiple phases. All electricity generated will be exported to Bapco Energies’ load center in the Kingdom of Bahrain, supporting the country’s energy requirements and accelerating its national renewable energy transition. The project aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s energy export capabilities and contribute to regional emissions-reduction efforts.

Raad Al Saady, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of ACWA Power, said the agreement reflects the strong bilateral relationship between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain and reinforces shared commitments to sustainable energy development. He noted that the project supports both Saudi Vision 2030 and Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, while advancing regional energy security and clean power deployment. He also expressed appreciation for the guidance of the Saudi Ministry of Energy.

Mark Thomas, Group CEO of Bapco Energies, described the agreement as a key step in Bahrain’s energy diversification strategy. He said the partnership with ACWA Power will help ensure long-term energy security for Bahrain and unlock the potential of renewables in the region.

The project aligns with the Bahrain National Energy Strategy, which focuses on improving energy efficiency, expanding renewable energy adoption, and ensuring secure and competitive access to power. The cross-border clean energy initiative is also expected to strengthen GCC energy cooperation.

For ACWA Power, the agreement adds to its expanding global renewable energy portfolio and reinforces its leadership role in advancing the regional energy transition.