Kuwait has launched a tender to build two 250 MW solar power plants at the North Shuaiba Power and Water Complex, marking a significant step in its renewable energy goals. The Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy issued the tender for the design, construction, and operation of the projects, with a deadline of March 2024 for bid submissions.
Kuwait solar power tender supports 30% renewable energy goal by 2030
Kuwait has made a significant leap towards its renewable energy ambitions with the launch of a tender for two 250 MW solar power plants. The Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy has called for bids to design, construct, and operate the solar photovoltaic (PV) projects at the North Shuaiba Power and Water Complex.
Kuwait’s Shuaiba Power Complex, a major energy hub, is set to host two new 250 MW solar plants, advancing the country’s renewable energy goals.
According to a report by the Kuwait News Agency, the tender documents were made available on Sunday, with a deadline for bid submissions set for March 24, 2024. This move is part of Kuwait’s broader strategy to increase its renewable energy capacity and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Kuwait’s commitment to renewable energy is underscored by its ambitious target to generate 30% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. This initiative aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and transition towards more sustainable energy sources.
Currently, Kuwait’s renewable energy capacity is just 80 MW, which constitutes a mere 0.4% of its total energy capacity of 19.5 GW. The successful implementation of the two 250 MW solar plants will significantly boost this capacity.
North Shuaiba project advances Kuwait solar power tender initiative
The North Shuaiba Solar PV project is a key component of Kuwait’s renewable energy expansion. The project will have a combined capacity of 500 MW, which will be developed in two phases. Each phase will consist of a 250 MW solar power plant, equipped with advanced PV technology to maximize energy output.
The tender documents outline the requirements for prospective bidders, including the design, engineering, procurement, construction, and operation of the solar plants. The selected contractors will be responsible for delivering a turnkey solution that meets the stringent quality and performance standards set by the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy.
Once operational, the North Shuaiba solar plants will contribute significantly to Kuwait’s renewable energy mix. The plants are expected to generate clean electricity, reducing the country’s carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
The project will also create jobs during the construction and operational phases, providing a boost to the local economy. The development of the North Shuaiba solar plants is expected to attract significant interest from international and local companies specializing in renewable energy. The tender process is anticipated to be highly competitive, given the scale and importance of the project.
Expanding clean energy through Kuwait solar power tender projects
Kuwait’s renewable energy strategy is not limited to the North Shuaiba project. The country has several other initiatives aimed at increasing its renewable energy capacity. One of the most notable projects is the Shagaya Renewable Energy Park, located in the Al Jahra region of Kuwait. The park is expected to have a total capacity of 4 GW, with a mix of solar and wind energy.
The Shagaya project is being developed in three phases. The first phase, which was completed in 2018, included a 50 MW Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plant, a 10 MW wind farm, and a 10 MW solar PV plant. The second phase is currently underway, with plans to add another 1 GW of capacity by 2025.
In addition to the Shagaya project, Kuwait is also exploring the development of offshore wind energy. The country’s coastal areas have significant potential for wind energy, which could complement its solar energy initiatives.
Kuwait’s renewable energy ambitions are also supported by its participation in regional and international collaborations. The country is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Interconnection Authority, which aims to create a regional electricity grid that will include renewable energy sources.
The tender for the North Shuaiba solar power plants marks a major milestone in Kuwait’s renewable energy journey. As the country moves towards its goal of generating 30% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030, projects like the North Shuaiba solar plants will play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and ensuring a sustainable energy future.
