Spain’s Tecnicas Reunidas and Egypt’s Orascom Construction have signed a $2.6 billion deal to expand a 3-gigawatt combined cycle gas-fired power plant in Saudi Arabia. The project includes the addition of carbon capture infrastructure and a 380-kilovolt (kV) electrical substation. This agreement supports Saudi Arabia’s push for cleaner energy technologies and infrastructure upgrades.
While this large project is underway, both Egypt and Saudi Arabia have been implementing smaller renewable energy initiatives to diversify their energy sources.
In Egypt, small solar-powered irrigation systems are being deployed in the Nile Delta and Fayoum regions. These systems have capacities ranging from 5 kilowatts (kW) to 20 kW, helping farmers reduce diesel fuel use and water waste. The Ministry of Irrigation reported that over 500 units are now in operation.
Public institutions are also adopting renewable energy. In Aswan, small rooftop solar systems have been installed at local healthcare centers. These systems generate up to 50 kW of power, ensuring a steady electricity supply for essential services.
In Alexandria, a solar-powered desalination pilot project has been launched. The plant has a capacity of 100 kW and provides clean water for surrounding communities. In Saudi Arabia, smaller-scale projects include solar installations for rural communities. In Al-Jouf province, solar panels have been installed to power water pumps for remote villages. Each system generates around 10 kW of energy, ensuring water access in off-grid areas.
Saudi universities are also advancing renewable energy. King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah has installed a 2 MW rooftop solar system on its campus, powering research facilities and reducing energy costs.
The city of Al-Khobar has introduced solar-powered streetlights in some neighborhoods. These lights use energy storage systems and produce 50-100 watts per unit, reducing electricity demand from the grid. In addition, Saudi Arabia is testing floating solar panels at a small reservoir in Tabuk. The 1 MW pilot project is exploring the potential for large-scale deployment.
