Saudi Energy (formerly Saudi Electricity Company) said it has commissioned the world’s largest grid-side grid-forming Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project with a total installed capacity of 2.5GW, utilising BYD’s advanced energy storage technology across five strategic locations in Saudi Arabia.

Alfanar Projects was the EPC contractor for the project. It had successfully delivered all five projects within a record timeframe, highlighting its expertise in executing large-scale strategic energy infrastructure projects and reinforcing its role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s power sector transformation.

The landmark project has successfully completed all grid-tied charging and discharging tests and is now officially operational. The project forms part of SEC’s Phase III Energy Storage Program and serves five major power regions across the Kingdom, including Riyadh, Rabigh, Dawadmi, Al Jouf, and Qassim.

The battery energy storage systems (BESS) for the project were supplied by BYD Energy Storage, one of the world’s leading energy storage technology providers.

The advanced grid-forming battery systems are designed to strengthen grid stability, enhance renewable energy integration, and support Saudi Arabia’s ambitious clean energy objectives.

The project is currently recognized as the largest grid-side grid-forming energy storage cluster in the world, incorporating more than 2,000 Power Conversion System (PCS) units. 

The large-scale energy storage network will significantly improve the flexibility and reliability of Saudi Arabia’s power system by increasing grid regulation capabilities, supporting the growing share of renewable energy generation, reducing local power supply constraints, and ensuring stable electricity supply across multiple regions.

The project aligns closely with the Kingdom’s energy transformation strategy and supports the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the energy mix and accelerate the deployment of sustainable energy infrastructure.

The successful commissioning of the 2.5GW facility represents a significant milestone in the development of a new-generation power system in Saudi Arabia and demonstrates the growing role of battery energy storage in supporting the Kingdom’s transition toward a cleaner, more resilient, and renewable-based energy future.

The project is expected to serve as a benchmark for large-scale energy storage deployment globally while reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in advanced energy infrastructure development.