Saudi Arabia Reveals Qualified Bidders For 5.3 GW Solar And Wind Projects Under NREP

Saudi Arabia has announced the qualified bidders for the seventh round of renewable energy projects under the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP), which is overseen by the Ministry of Energy. This round, managed by the Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC), includes both solar and wind projects with a combined capacity of 5,300 megawatts (MW). The initiative reflects the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to harness its renewable resources and diversify its energy mix, reducing reliance on high-value liquid fuels for electricity generation.

The solar projects included in Round Seven are spread across different regions of Saudi Arabia. The Tabarjal II project in the Al Jouf region is expected to have a capacity of 1,400 MW. The Mawqaq project in Hail and the Tathleeth project in Aseer will each contribute 600 MW. Additionally, the South Al Ula Solar PV IPP in the Madinah region will add 500 MW to the total solar capacity.

For wind energy, the two projects in the Madinah region will have a combined capacity of 2,200 MW. The Bilghah Wind IPP will offer 1,300 MW, while the Shagran Wind IPP is designed for 900 MW. These projects are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to develop both solar and wind capacity across the country, leveraging favorable climatic and geographic conditions.

The list of qualified developers for the wind IPPs includes a mix of international and local companies. Managing and technical members consist of Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar), Alfanar Company, EDF Power Solutions, Kahrabel FZE (Engie), Marubeni Corporation, Power China, Goldwind Science & Technology, Sembcorp Utilities, TotalEnergies Renewables, DL Energy Company, China Longyuan Power Group, Envision Energy, and WahajPeak Holdings. Other managing members include Saudi Electricity Company, SPIC Shanghai Electric Power Company, Al Jomaih Energy & Water Company, Korea Electric Power Corporation (Kepco), GD Power Development Company, and Gulf Development Public Company. Technical members include Nesma Renewable Energy and Grupo Empresarial Enhol.

For the solar PV IPPs, SPPC has qualified companies such as Masdar, Alfanar, Al Gihaz Holding Company, EDF Power Solutions, Engie, Sembcorp Utilities, Jinko Power (HK), TotalEnergies Renewables, Al Jomaih Energy & Water Company, Kepco, Nesma Renewable Energy, Korea Western Power Company, Marubeni Corporation, SPIC Shanghai Electric Power Company, WahajPeak Holdings, and FAS Energy for Trading Company. Managing members for solar projects include Saudi Electricity Company, Grupo Empresarial Enhol, Power China, GD Power Development, Gulf Development Public Company, and Reliance NU Energies Private Limited.

The National Renewable Energy Program, led by the Ministry of Energy, is designed to maximize the use of Saudi Arabia’s abundant solar and wind resources. The program aims to create an optimal energy mix, support sustainable development, and reduce the consumption of costly liquid fuels in electricity production. SPPC plays a crucial role in the process by preparing feasibility studies, conducting tenders for electricity generation projects, and signing power purchase agreements with developer consortia.

With Round Seven, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position in the renewable energy sector, attracting a diverse group of experienced international and local developers. These projects are expected to contribute significantly to the country’s energy transition goals, supporting both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

This step marks another milestone in Saudi Arabia’s renewable energy journey, underlining the kingdom’s commitment to achieving a cleaner, more diversified energy future.