A new joint venture has been set up by Saudi Arabia's Abdul Latif Jameel Energy (ALJ Energy) and Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV),a global leader in solar energy,  to develop photovoltaic (PV) solar energy projects in the kingdom.

Both companies will jointly develop and invest in solar plants, said a statement.
 
Through this venture, FRV and Abdul Latif Jameel Energy will together undertake the tender of the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KA-CARE) program, which includes the construction of 41 GW of solar power by 2032, of which 16 GW is photovoltaic, the statement said.

In a first step the program held a preliminary round of applications from five to seven renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of 500-800 MW.

Abdul Latif Jameel Energy, a wholly-owned division of Abdul Latif Jameel, brings its knowledge of the local market and financial capability. FRV, with presence in Dubai, and with more than 2 GW developed worldwide, brings its extensive experience in engineering, development and construction of solar installations, and a proven track record in adding value in the financing and management of the assets, it said.

KA-CARE is an ambitious program to develop alternative energy and to position the Saudi Arabia as one of the most important renewable energy markets in the world. It includes PV and concentrated solar power energy, wind, geothermal, waste conversion as well as nuclear energy to diversify its energy sources in the future. These projects represent an estimated investment of over $60 billion.

Roberto de Diego Arozamena, CEO of Abdul Latif Energy, said: “The joint venture of Abdul Latif Jameel Energy with a world class developer of solar power plants such as FRV creates a highly competitive and experienced new player in the solar energy space. We aim to bring best cost, flawless execution and optimal energy pricing to the Saudi Arabian market supported by FRV’s significant track record and experience. Our partnership will bring additional value to the kingdom by developing training programs and creating local job opportunities for Saudi nationals.

"In addition to the KA-CARE program, we are also evaluating other potential solar energy generation opportunities with FRV. We believe that this joint venture with FRV is a key element of our overall energy generation ambitions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the region, which will include other countries and technologies,” he said.

Tristan Higuero, FRV´s managing director for the Mena, said: "This joint venture with a partner as prestigious as Abdul Latif Jameel, with extensive experience and knowledge of the region, allows us to undertake the project with guaranteed success and to consolidate FRV’s long-term presence in this strategic market.

"Due to its geographical position, high level of solar radiation and the government's commitment to diversify the national energy production and to promote the creation of a local solar industry, Saudi Arabia is a strategic market for us," he said. -TradeArabia News Service