By: Utilities Middle east

The Maaden Bauxite and Alumina Company (MBAC), a subsidiary of the rapidly expanding Saudi Arabian Mining Company, has signed a Power Purchase Agreement with Emerge, a joint venture that combines Masdar’s clean energy expertise and EDF’s low-carbon solutions. This collaboration aims to develop a solar power project to supply the Al Baitha Bauxite Mine with renewable energy for the next 30 years.

The initiative is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, focusing on carbon emission reduction and sustainable industrial growth. The solar facility will include an 8 MWp solar photovoltaic array and a 30 MWh battery energy storage system, ensuring a consistent 24/7 electricity supply. The project is expected to generate around 17,300 MWh of electricity annually, reducing CO₂ emissions by approximately 13,800 tonnes, equivalent to removing over 3,000 cars from the road each year.

Key figures from Maaden, Emerge, Masdar, and EDF highlighted the importance of this partnership in driving renewable energy and decarbonising the mining sector. Emerge will manage the entire project, from financing to maintenance, providing a comprehensive solution for sustainable energy usage.