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ACWA/Aramco Solar & Wind Project

Makkah, Saudi Arabia

2025 - Ongoing
Climate ChangeEconomic DevelopmentRenewable Energy

Project Description

Approach Words: Strategic Planning, Sustainability, Urban Resilience

Public Policy Instruments: Financial Mechanism, Infrastructure, Planning

The ACWA/Aramco Solar & Wind Projects is a landmark renewable energy initiative in Saudi Arabia, with sites distributed across Bisha (Asir), Humaij (Madinah), Khulis (Makkah), and Afif (Riyadh).1 This initiative is among of the world’s largest renewable energy portfolios, targeting 15 GW of combined solar and wind capacity.2 The project was formally launched in July 2025 when power purchase agreements (PPAs) were signed for seven renewable energy plants.3

The project vision is to accelerate the kingdom’s transformation into a global renewable energy hub, as the solar power and wind to build a sustainable and diversified economy.4 It aims to expand clean-energy generation,5 reduce carbon emissions in support of Saudi climate targets,6 and generate employment opportunities across the renewable energy value chain,7 aligning directly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.8

Title: Saudi Arabia launches the next phase of its ambitious renewable energy plan with new large-scale solar and wind projects

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Title: Layout of Aramco Madinah Bulk Plant - Saudi Aramco under construction

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Title: Agreements signed for 15,000 MW of new solar and wind energy projects in Saudi Arabia

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Title: landmark moment as leaders from Saudi Aramco and GE inaugurate the first wind turbine

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To implement these objectives, the initiative spans multiple sites across the Kingdom with a combined investment of USD 8.3 billion9 and includes several key components:10

12 GW of utility-scale solar photovoltaic installations11

15 GW of onshore wind farms12

Grid integration infrastructure supported by long-term PPAs with the Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC)13

In terms of sustainability, the project integrates state-of-the-art renewable technologies designed to achieve some of the lowest levelized costs of energy (LCOE) in the region.14 It also introduces innovative financing through 25-year PPAs, ensuring stable revenue streams.15 Competitive tariffs, achieved through international tendering, have set new benchmarks for renewable energy pricing in the Middle East.16

The initiative is delivered by a consortium of major stakeholders; ACWA Power, Badeel (a Public Investment Fund – PIF – subsidiary), and Saudi Aramco Power Company (SAPCO).17 The electricity generated will be purchased by SPPC.18

The project follows a phased implementation plan:19

Phase 1 (2025): Financial close and mobilisation in July following PPA signing20

Phase 2 (2025 – 2026): Construction of large-scale solar and wind facilities21

Phase 3 (2027): Commercial operation and full grid integration22

Currently in its early implementation phase, the ACWA/Aramco Solar & Wind Projects are expected to deliver 15 GW of renewable energy capacity upon completion, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in the transition to a sustainable and diversified energy mix.23 24

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