Global developers are being invited to the table as Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC) opens the RFQ for Round Seven of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious National Renewable Energy Programme.
This initiative targets a remarkable 5,300 MW of renewable capacity, blending cutting-edge solar PV and wind technologies.
As Saudi Arabia accelerates its Vision 2030 ambitions, this RFQ highlights the nation’s commitment to slashing fossil fuel reliance and improving energy security.
For investors, developers, and sustainability enthusiasts, Round 7 represents a golden opportunity in one of the world’s fastest-growing renewable markets.
Unpacking the NREP Round 7 Projects: Scale and Scope
The RFQ, dubbed RFQ_R7S, encompasses six flagship projects strategically distributed across diverse regions to harness optimal natural resources.
Solar PV takes centre stage with 3,100 MW across four independent power producer (IPP) sites:
- Tabarjal Two Solar PV IPP (Al-Jouf Region): A massive 1,400 MW installation, expected to illuminate the northern deserts with efficient photovoltaic arrays.
- Mawqaq Solar PV IPP (Hail Region): 600 MW of sun-soaked power generation.
- Tathleeth Solar PV IPP (Aseer Region): Another 600 MW, tapping into southern highlands for year-round irradiance.
- South Al Ula Solar PV IPP (Madinah Region): 500 MW, enhancing the historic region’s green footprint.
Complementing this solar surge are two wind projects totalling 2,200 MW, both in the stormy Madinah Region:
- Bilghah Wind IPP: 1,300 MW, leveraging steady trade winds for reliable output.
- Shagran Wind IPP: 900 MW, further diversifying the wind portfolio.
These sites were meticulously selected for their high resource potential, grid proximity, and minimal environmental impact, aligning with the Ministry of Energy’s rigorous site assessment protocols.
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Once operational, Round 7 could power millions of homes, equivalent to offsetting emissions from thousands of vehicles annually, propelling Saudi Arabia closer to its 2030 goal of 50% renewable energy in the power mix.
Timeline and Qualification: How to Get Involved
Time is of the essence for prospective bidders. Statements of Qualification (SOQs) must be submitted by September 29, 2025, via SPPC’s secure e-procurement platform, ensuring a transparent and efficient process.
Shortlisted developers will advance to the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage, with financial close targeted for mid-2026 and commercial operations by 2028-2029.
To qualify, consortia must meet stringent criteria, reflecting SPPC’s emphasis on proven expertise:
- Technical Prowess: At least 200 MWac of operational solar PV capacity for technical members.
- Financial Strength: Minimum tangible net worth of USD 50 million for technical members and USD 100 million for managing members.
- Track Record: Demonstrated success in financing and executing large-scale infrastructure ventures.
These benchmarks, drawn from global best practices, aim to attract top-tier international players while promoting local content development.
Past rounds have seen fierce competition from giants like ACWA Power and Masdar, driving down tariffs to record lows under 2 cents per kWh in some cases.
NREP’s Broader Impact
Launched in 2017, NREP is the cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s renewable revolution, targeting 58.7 GW by 2030 through 17 GW of solar, 11.9 GW of wind, and more.
To date, over 43 GW has been awarded via power purchase agreements (PPAs), with Round 6 alone adding 4.4 GW.
This momentum not only diversifies the energy matrix, reducing liquid fuel imports, but also creates jobs, spurs technological innovation, and positions the Kingdom as a Middle East green hub.
Economically, these projects promise billions in investments, with localisation mandates boosting Saudi firms’ capabilities in EPC, O&M, and manufacturing.
Environmentally, they align with net-zero pledges, curbing CO₂ emissions and preserving arid ecosystems through advanced land-use planning.
The Road Ahead
As Round 7 unfolds, the global renewable sector watches closely. With supportive policies like the Renewable Energy Project Development Scheme and streamlined approvals, Saudi Arabia is rewriting its energy narrative.
Developers eyeing entry should prioritise hybrid models and storage integration for competitive edges.
SPPC’s RFQ for NREP Round 7 isn’t just a tender; it’s a catalyst for transformative change. By blending ambition with execution, the Kingdom is illuminating a sustainable future. Stay tuned for bidder announcements.
Ronnie Paul is a seasoned writer and analyst with a prolific portfolio of over 1,000 published articles, specialising in fintech, cryptocurrency, climate change, and digital finance at Africa Digest News.
