On May 11, the largest photovoltaic (PV) project in the Middle East — the Saudi Al Shuaibah PV Power Plant, which is centrally contracted and constructed by China Energy Engineering Group (CEEC) — officially obtained the Initial Commercial Operation Certificate issued by the owner, achieving full-capacity commercial operation of 2.6GW. This landmark achievement not only demonstrates CEEC's exceptional strength in the PV sector but also injects strong momentum into Saudi Arabia's energy transition and sustainable development.  

Located approximately 80 kilometers south of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the project covers an area of 53 square kilometers and boasts a massive scale. Comprising two sub-projects, ASB1 (600 MW) and ASB2 (2,000 MW), it has a total installed capacity of 2.6GW, making it the largest PV power plant project in the Middle East to date.  

Technologically, the project is at the global forefront, employing the world's most advanced N-type bifacial PV modules and single-axis automatic tracking brackets. These cutting-edge technologies enable precise and maximum absorption of solar energy, achieving unmanned operation. This not only improves power generation efficiency but also reduces operational costs. Meanwhile, the project has effectively driven the "going global" of Chinese equipment and technologies, enhancing China's influence in the global PV industry.  

Since the project's commencement, the execution team has always adhered to high standards and strict requirements, maintaining friendly and trustworthy cooperative relationships with the owner and all participating parties. By integrating the superior resources of all sides, the team has steadily promoted the smooth implementation of the project. Notably, all indicators met contractual requirements after the project entered commercial operation, and the handover time was advanced by four months compared to the main contract, fully demonstrating CEEC's efficient contract performance capability and strong project management standards.  

Upon full operation, the project will generate enormous environmental and social benefits over the next 35 years. With an estimated total power generation of approximately 282.2 billion kilowatt-hours, it will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 245 million tons — equivalent to planting 545 million trees in the desert. This is of great significance for improving the local environment and reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, the project will provide Saudi Arabia with clean and sustainable energy, assisting it in achieving its energy transition goals and promoting sustainable economic and social development.  

The successful operation of the Saudi Al Shuaibah PV Power Plant project is a vivid practice of CEEC's active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative and a model of China-Saudi cooperation in the energy sector. It has not only contributed to Saudi Arabia's energy development but also set a benchmark for Chinese PV enterprises expanding into international markets. In the future, CEEC will continue to leverage its strengths to contribute more Chinese solutions to global energy transition and sustainable development.(This article is from the official website of Seetao.com, www.seetao.com. No reprinting is allowed without permission. Otherwise, legal liability will be pursued. If reprinting, please indicate Seetao.com + the original text link.) Editor of the Strategic Column of Seetao.com / Yin Shiqian