By: Utilities Middle east

ACWA Power and Bapco Energies have announced a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to develop a solar power plant integrated with large-scale battery energy storage in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.

The agreement was unveiled during the Saudi–Bahraini Coordination Council meeting in December 2025.

The project is planned in multiple phases, with a total generation capacity of up to 2.8 gigawatts. All electricity produced will be transmitted to Bapco Energies’ load centre in Bahrain, supporting the kingdom’s energy needs and accelerating its transition to renewable energy. The initiative also positions Saudi Arabia as a regional energy export hub while helping neighbouring countries meet emissions-reduction targets.

Mr Raad Al Saady, Vice Chairman & 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 with both Vision 2030 and Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, supporting clean energy expansion and accelerating the net-zero pathway. We are proud to advance a project that strengthens regional energy security and promotes renewable power.”

Mr Mark Thomas, Group CEO of Bapco Energies, added: “This agreement marks another milestone in our journey towards energy diversification and regional collaboration. By partnering with ACWA Power, we are taking a bold step to secure long-term energy supply for Bahrain while harnessing the potential of renewables.”

The project aligns with Bapco Energies’ Bahrain National Energy Strategy, which aims to improve energy efficiency, diversify the national energy mix, and ensure secure, competitive access to energy. For ACWA Power, the initiative further expands its global renewable portfolio and reinforces its role in driving the energy transition across the GCC and beyond.