Kuwait Extends Bidding Deadline For 500 MW Shagaya Zone 2 Solar Project

Kuwait has extended the bidding deadline for the 500 MW Al Dibdibah and Al Shagaya Renewable Energy Phase III – Zone 2 solar project, giving developers more time to submit their proposals. The project, located in the Jahra Governorate, aims to develop a large-scale solar photovoltaic independent power plant as part of the country’s clean energy expansion plans. The new deadline has been moved from mid-February 2026 to the end of April 2026.

The extension was confirmed by the Kuwait Authority for Partnership Projects in coordination with the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. The project forms an important part of the Shagaya Renewable Energy Park, a flagship initiative designed to diversify Kuwait’s energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

The development process began in May 2025 when a prequalification notice was issued. By October 2025, nine international and local consortia had been prequalified to bid for the project. Officials noted that Zone 2 has different technical and financial requirements compared to Zone 1 of the same park. Zone 1 is a larger project with a capacity of 1,100 MW and requires different expertise and investment capabilities.

Authorities said the extension will allow the shortlisted bidders additional time to refine their technical plans and complete financial arrangements. Large infrastructure projects often require detailed engineering designs, financial structuring, and coordination among partners, making additional preparation time beneficial for ensuring strong and competitive proposals.

The Zone 2 project is not the only major utility initiative to see a deadline change. The bidding period for the Al Khairan Phase 1 independent water and power producer project was also recently extended until the end of March 2026. These adjustments highlight the government’s effort to maintain a transparent and competitive selection process.

Kuwait is steadily increasing its focus on renewable energy to meet rising electricity demand and support long-term sustainability goals. The 500 MW Zone 2 solar project represents a key step in this direction. As the new April deadline approaches, attention remains on the nine qualified consortia competing to deliver one of the country’s most significant solar developments.