The Al Shuaibah PV Power Plant, located in the desert about 80 kilometers south of Jeddah in Mecca Province, Saudi Arabia, is being developed by subsidiaries of China Energy Engineering Group Co., Ltd (Energy China).
Equipped with cutting-edge N-type double-sided PV modules and single-axis automatic tracking systems, the project boasts a total installed capacity of 2.6 gigawatts, making it the world’s largest individual PV power plant under construction.
Covering nearly 53 square kilometers, the project comprises solar power generation facilities, a step-up substation, a central control center, overhead transmission lines and supporting infrastructure.
The plant was connected to the grid in December 2024, three months ahead of schedule, and is expected to be handed over by the end of the year.
Implementing safety and environmental standards
During construction, safety education has been integrated into daily operations. Measures include prohibiting unapproved personnel and equipment from entering the site and requiring authorized work permits before undertaking any tasks.
“We brought safety training equipment from China to provide workers with hands-on experience,” said Zeng Zichang, deputy manager of the project.
“For example, workers learn how to properly secure steel cables, use five-point safety harnesses for high-altitude tasks and install toe boards on scaffolding.”
To date, the project has racked up 16 million safe working hours, gaining recognition and praise from international stakeholders.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s carbon reduction goals
Among the Energy China subsidiaries working on Al Shuaibah are China Energy International Engineering Co., Ltd., China Energy Engineering Group Guangdong Power Engineering Co., Ltd., and Northwest Electric Power Design Institute Co., Ltd. of the China Power Engineering Consulting Group.
More than 50 subcontractors and suppliers from several countries are also involved, ensuring that, while it promotes Chinese equipment and technology, the project also provides a platform for international collaboration.
“Most of the project’s tracking system components are supplied by a Spanish company,” said Xiong Gaoxia, deputy general manager of China Energy International Engineering.
“These systems adjust the angle of the solar panels based on the sun’s position, maximizing energy efficiency.”
The project also integrates advanced digital and intelligent technologies, enabling unmanned operations upon completion.
By significantly contributing to Saudi Arabia’s carbon reduction goals, Al Shuaibah is set to become a flagship project for China-Saudi Arabia cooperation in renewable energy.
(Executive editor: Zhu Zeya)
