Global solar technology firm Arctech has inaugurated the second phase of its manufacturing facility in Jeddah, a $60 million expansion that boosts its annual production capacity in Saudi Arabia to 15 GW. The move establishes one of the largest solar-tracker manufacturing hubs in the Middle East and significantly advances the Kingdom’s clean-energy industrial base in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
A Hub for Saudi Clean Energy
The expanded plant, covering approximately 100,000 square metres, is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s strategy to localise advanced industries and build a competitive domestic supply chain for renewables. The facility now manufactures key components like steel structures, transmission shafts, and control systems within the Kingdom. This will support local subcontractors and suppliers, creating skilled jobs and enhancing supply-chain resilience.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior Saudi and Chinese officials, highlighting the growing cooperation between the two nations in clean technology. Mr Wang Pei, Head of International Operations HQ and General Manager of Arctech’s MEA Unit, described the expansion as a sign of the company’s dedication to the region.
“This launch represents more than capacity growth; it’s a demonstration of Arctech’s long-term confidence in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East market,” Wang said. “By localizing production and technology, we can better serve regional clients and accelerate the energy transition.”
Arctech has already supplied over 15 GW of its trackers to major utility-scale solar projects in the country, including the ASB, Haden, and Al Shuaibah PV2 solar farms. The company’s growth is a key part of how Arctech expands its Jeddah factory as it strengthens solar partnerships across Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Supporting Major Projects in the UAE
Beyond Saudi Arabia, Arctech has a significant presence in the United Arab Emirates. The company supplied 2.1 GW of its SkySmart II trackers to Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra PV2 project, one of the world’s largest single-site solar farms. More recently, it secured a 1.5 GW tracker contract in Dubai.
Wang noted that the UAE’s commitment to its Net Zero 2050 Strategy has made it a key market for advanced solar technology. “The UAE’s leadership in clean energy provides a strong foundation for regional cooperation,” he stated. Arctech views the Saudi and Emirati markets as complementary parts of a unified GCC clean-energy ecosystem.
Future Growth and Regional Integration
Arctech is already planning Phase III of the Jeddah complex, which will expand into manufacturing energy storage systems and developing automated maintenance technologies. This next stage aims to integrate smart-energy solutions with its manufacturing capabilities on a single site.
“Our goal is to merge global innovation with local capability to deliver sustainable technology for the region,” Wang explained. With a team of 120 employees from 11 nationalities across the Middle East and Africa, the company is positioning itself as a central partner in the region’s energy transition.
The Jeddah facility is set to play a crucial role in helping both Saudi Arabia and the UAE achieve their ambitious renewable energy targets. By localising the production of critical solar infrastructure, Arctech is not only meeting rising regional demand but also contributing to the long-term sustainability and economic diversification goals of the GCC.
