The Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) has awarded contracts for the development of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) with a total combined capacity of 2,500 MW/10,000 MWh. These projects are set to be implemented in five locations across Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, Qaisumah, Dawadmi, Al Jouf, and Rabigh. Each location will host a 500 MW/2,500 MWh system.
The BESS projects will be implemented by multiple contractors. BYD Auto Industry Co. Ltd. has been awarded the contract for the design, supply, supervision of installation, testing, commissioning, and maintenance of the battery systems. Alfanar Projects will handle the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of the BESS substations and associated infrastructure.
These battery systems will primarily be used for load shifting, allowing the grid to store excess energy during periods of low demand and release it when demand increases. Additionally, the systems will support black start capabilities, which allow power to be restored without external electricity sources. Other applications include frequency regulation and voltage support, achieved by deploying a selectable portion of the system’s capacity at their respective Points of Interconnection (POI).
The energy storage systems are expected to reduce the reliance on part-load operations of existing power plants by balancing grid demand through efficient charging and discharging. This will also enable better integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid. By maintaining grid stability, the systems will help provide consistent voltage and frequency regulation.
Saudi Arabia is pursuing renewable energy and energy storage technologies as part of its Vision 2030. In addition to the BESS projects Saudi has other RE projects which include the Sakaka Solar Power Plant, which produces 300 MW of clean energy, and the Jeddah Solar PV project, with a planned capacity of 50 MW. The Yanbu Wind Project, which is under development, will contribute to the growing wind energy sector in the country.
