Global utility major Acwa Power and Bapco Energies, the integrated energy company leading the energy transition in Bahrain, has announced a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) for the development of a solar power plant integrated with large-scale battery energy storage technology, in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

The announcement of this strategic agreement took place during the Saudi–Bahraini Coordination Council meeting held last month (December).

Under the terms of the agreement, the two parties will jointly develop a solar power plant with a projected generation capacity of up to 2.8 GW over several phases.

The entire electricity generated will be transmitted to the load centre of Bapco Energies in Bahrain, supporting the kingdom’s national energy needs and accelerating its transition to renewable energy sources.

Raad Al Saady, the Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of Acwa Power, said: “This joint agreement with Bapco Energies is a testament to the strong bilateral ties between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain and our shared commitment to a sustainable and secure energy future.”

“The project aligns not only with Vision 2030 but also with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and its national ambitions to expand clean energy and accelerate its net-zero pathway. We take this opportunity to extend our sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Energy in Saudi Arabia for its continued guidance. Acwa Power is proud to help advance a project that strengthens regional energy security and accelerates the shift to renewable power.”

Mark Thomas, the Group CEO of Bapco Energies, said: “This agreement marks another important milestone in our journey towards energy diversification and regional collaboration. By working alongside Acwa Power, Bapco Energies is taking a bold step to ensure long-term energy security for the Kingdom of Bahrain while unlocking the power of renewables.”