Saudi Arabia’s Desert Technologies to Build Massive Solar Panel Facility
Desert Technologies, a leading Saudi company in renewable energy, will build a major solar manufacturing facility in Jeddah. Partnering with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (Modon), Desert Technologies aims to localize solar technology production in the Kingdom.
The facility, spanning 170,000 square meters in Jeddah’s third industrial city, will include advanced production lines. This new complex will produce 5 GW annually—2 GW of solar panels and 3 GW of solar cells—strengthening Saudi Arabia’s green energy infrastructure.
Investment of SAR 750 Million for a Sustainable Future
Desert Technologies plans to invest SAR 750 million (USD 200 million) into the project, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable energy. Modon will provide the land, marking this site as one of the Kingdom’s largest solar PV production centers. The facility will not only meet local solar demand but also support Saudi Arabia’s global exports.
CEO Khaled Sharbatly stated that Desert Technologies will use cutting-edge manufacturing methods. This approach ensures high-quality solar products that meet global standards, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s position in non-oil exports.
Saudi Vision 2030: Boosting Sustainable Energy Production
This project aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to achieve 50% renewable energy in the Kingdom’s power mix. The new facility strengthens local supply chains, supporting the goal of producing 75% of renewable components domestically by 2030.
As part of this effort, Modon has prioritized new solar projects across Saudi Arabia. Additionally, companies like TCL Zhonghuan and JinkoSolar plan to establish large manufacturing facilities in the Kingdom, further driving the nation’s shift toward carbon neutrality.
Solar Manufacturing Growth in the Region
Beyond Saudi Arabia, Oman has also attracted significant investment in solar manufacturing. United Solar Holding and Q-Sun Solar are building facilities in Oman’s Sohar free port, highlighting a regional push toward sustainable energy solutions. This momentum positions the Middle East as a growing hub for renewable energy production and technology.
Saudi Arabia’s investment in solar energy and Desert Technologies’ new facility underscore the Kingdom’s leadership in renewable energy.