Solar energy accounts for 92% of renewable energy projects in the Kingdom

By: Fahad Al-Talal

Solar energy projects account for 92% of renewable energy projects in the Kingdom, with solar energy projects valued at approximately SAR 18.26 billion, out of a total of SAR 19.8 billion invested in all renewable energy projects operating in the Kingdom to date.

According to the results of the bulletin issued by the General Authority for Statistics, the total capacity of operating projects reached approximately 6,551 megawatts, with solar energy accounting for the vast majority. Wind energy investments amounted to SAR 1.57 billion.

During 2024, five solar energy projects with a total capacity of 3,751 megawatts were commissioned, bringing the total number of projects to nine, in addition to one wind energy project with a capacity of 400 megawatts in Dumat Al-Jandal.

The number of residential units that could be supplied with electricity from renewable energy projects is estimated at approximately 1.14 million, reflecting the positive impact of these projects on energy security and environmental sustainability. The Shuaiba 1 project recorded the lowest cost of solar electricity production in the Kingdom, at 3.9 halalas per kilowatt-hour, a figure considered among the lowest globally. The projects were distributed across several regions, including Shuaiba, Ar Rass, Saad, Sudair, Jeddah, Rabigh, Sakaka, and Dumat Al-Jandal. This reflects the Kingdom’s geographical expansion in its reliance on renewable energy sources, particularly solar, as part of the goals of Vision 2030 to diversify the energy mix and promote sustainability.