Saudi Arabia Signs the World’s Largest Battery Energy Storage Deal

By Dina Qaddari 

Saudi Arabia has signed the largest battery energy storage system (BESS) deal in the world with China’s BYD Energy Storage, according to a press release received by Energy Platform, a Washington-based specialized outlet.

The agreement was signed between the Saudi Electricity Company and BYD, covering a massive grid-scale energy storage project with a total capacity of 12.5 GWh.

Including a previous 2.6 GWh project, the total collaboration now reaches 15.1 GWh.

This marks a major milestone in the two companies’ cooperation in renewable energy, giving significant momentum to the growth of the clean energy sector in Saudi Arabia and aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

Advanced Energy Storage Technologies in Saudi Arabia

This partnership with BYD demonstrates the Saudi Electricity Company’s commitment to deploying advanced battery storage technologies to enhance energy efficiency and accelerate renewable energy development. The Kingdom aims to achieve a 50% renewable energy mix by 2030.

Under the contract, BYD will supply Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) equipment designed to store electricity generated from renewable sources such as solar and wind.

The systems will be installed at five sites across Saudi Arabia and integrated into the national grid, according to the statement reviewed by Energy Platform.

Both companies believe that the deployment of these systems will play a critical role in addressing the challenges posed by the increasing share of renewable generation, ensuring stable power supply, and meeting peak demand effectively.

BYD stated that the project will “redefine the value and positioning of electrochemical energy storage solutions” in the global energy landscape. The company also reaffirmed its commitment to continued investment in research, innovation, and international collaboration, expressing confidence in delivering the project on schedule.

About the Technology: MC Cube-T Battery System

BYD will provide its MC Cube-T battery system, which utilizes next-generation lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells for energy storage.

According to information obtained by Energy Platform, LFP batteries offer enhanced safety, longer lifespan, and improved sustainability by delivering more power with a lower environmental footprint.

The MC Cube-T system also features intelligent liquid cooling technology, which increases overall system efficiency, as reported by Interesting Engineering.

In addition, BYD highlighted the system’s ease of transport, planning, installation, and maintenance, along with its scalability. It operates effectively in ambient temperatures between 30°C and 45°C (86°F–113°F) and at altitudes up to 3,000 meters (9,842 feet).

To date, BYD has delivered more than 75 GWh of BESS equipment to over 350 projects in more than 110 countries and regions worldwide.