By: Solar be global

JA Solar has launched construction of a major solar manufacturing hub in Egypt’s Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone), marking a significant step in the localization of photovoltaic production in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The $210 million Atum Solar integrated base—a joint venture involving JA Solar, UAE’s Global South Utilities, Bahrain’s Infinity Capital, and Egyptian firm AH Industrial Management Consulting—will have an annual capacity of 2GW of high-efficiency solar cells, 2GW of modules, and 1GWh of energy storage systems.

The project, which covers 200,000 square meters within the TEDA Industrial Park, is designed to export cells globally while supplying modules and storage primarily to Egypt and regional markets. It emphasizes local procurement of materials like aluminum and glass to support Egypt’s industrial ecosystem and create hundreds of jobs.

Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister Kamel Al-Wazir highlighted the project’s role in reducing import dependence and advancing the country’s green manufacturing ambitions. The SCZone has attracted over $1.5 billion in Chinese PV investments, with firms like Borui New Energy and CSG also establishing production bases, forming a growing solar manufacturing cluster.

JA Solar’s move aligns with its broader MENA strategy, which includes a planned 6GW cell and 3GW module factory in Oman. This dual-project approach reflects a shift among Chinese solar manufacturers toward localized, joint-venture models that mitigate trade risks and leverage regional incentives. Similar investments by Jinko Solar, TCL Zhonghuan, and others underscore the MENA region’s emergence as a key hub for renewable energy manufacturing, driven by strong local demand, favorable policies, and strategic partnerships.