- 3.1 GW of solar and 2.2 GW of wind projects move closer to procurement.
Saudi Arabia has taken another significant step in scaling up its renewable energy capacity with the announcement of qualified developers for Round Seven of the National Renewable Energy Program. The shortlist was confirmed in early January 2026 following the submission of bids in late 2025.
The round covers a combined 5.3 GW of new renewable energy projects, comprising 3.1 GW of utility scale solar photovoltaic capacity and 2.2 GW of onshore wind power. The projects are being developed under a build own operate model and form part of the Kingdom’s long term strategy to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependence on liquid fuels.
The solar portfolio includes four large projects: the 1.4 GW Hima project, 600 MW at Bisha, 500 MW in Madinah, and 600 MW at Mawqaq. On the wind side, the 1.3 GW Bilghah project and the 900 MW Shagran project are among the largest onshore wind developments planned in the country to date.
A strong lineup of international and regional energy players has qualified for the round, including Masdar, Alfanar, Engie through Kahrabel FZE, Marubeni, Power China and TotalEnergies, among others. Their participation highlights continued global interest in the Saudi renewable energy market and reinforces confidence in the country’s procurement framework.
Round Seven builds on the momentum of earlier NREP rounds, which have delivered some of the lowest renewable energy tariffs globally. As Saudi Arabia accelerates deployment at scale, the program is increasingly relevant for energy developers, financiers and technology providers across emerging markets, including Africa, where similar competitive procurement models are being adopted to fast track clean energy investment.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
