ENGIE is a global leader in low-carbon energy solutions, operating across multiple continents and energy sectors. Al Jouf Cement Company (AJCC) manufactures cement and supports sustainable industrial development in Saudi Arabia. ENGIE and AJCC have partnered to develop a solar photovoltaic (PV) plant generating 22 megawatt-peak (MWp) of clean power.

The project will be built at AJCC’s cement production facility in Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders Province. This region plays a strategic role in Saudi Arabia’s broader industrial and renewable energy transformation efforts. The solar plant aims to power cement operations with clean energy, reducing dependence on traditional fossil fuels. It aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes renewable energy and sustainability across all economic sectors.

The solar PV system will reduce AJCC’s environmental impact while supporting the Kingdom’s national climate goals. Over 25 years, the plant is expected to eliminate 1,481,100 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions. That reduction is equivalent to the carbon absorbed by over 24 million tree seedlings grown for 10 years. It represents one of the largest industrial solar projects focused on reducing emissions in Saudi Arabia.

Cement production is energy-intensive and emits large amounts of carbon dioxide during the manufacturing process. Integrating solar energy into operations helps minimize emissions from electricity consumption and supports cleaner cement production. The Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) was signed during a formal ceremony attended by prominent Saudi officials. His Highness Prince Faisal Bin Sultan Al Saud, Prince of the Northern Border, attended the agreement ceremony. The PPA secures a long-term fixed electricity rate for AJCC, providing financial predictability and stability.

This agreement allows AJCC to manage operating costs more effectively while investing in future sustainability initiatives. By reducing energy price volatility, AJCC strengthens business continuity and energy cost resilience. The plant will supply 100% of the generated solar electricity directly to AJCC under the agreement. This enables on-site usage of clean energy, reducing grid dependency and enhancing energy security.

ENGIE will design, develop, install, and maintain the solar PV plant to ensure optimal long-term performance. Its engineering team will tailor the solution to AJCC’s energy consumption patterns and facility layout. The project covers 420,000 square meters, optimized for maximum solar energy production and operational efficiency. This large-scale deployment demonstrates the potential of utility-scale solar projects in industrial applications.

Pierre Cheyron, ENGIE’s Managing Director for Energy Solutions AMEA, emphasized the project’s alignment with Saudi green energy ambitions. He highlighted ENGIE’s strategy to support clean energy growth in high-impact sectors across the Middle East. Cheyron believes public-private cooperation is essential to accelerate renewable adoption and fight climate change.

AJCC CEO Abdulkarim M Al Nuhayer expressed pride in advancing environmental practices in Saudi Arabia’s cement industry. He reaffirmed AJCC’s commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 and corporate environmental responsibility. Nuhayer stressed the importance of energy transition in industrial sectors and its long-term business advantages. He believes the solar plant demonstrates AJCC’s leadership in industrial sustainability and innovation.

This project strengthens the Kingdom’s clean energy ecosystem and showcases the benefits of renewables in industry. It sets a benchmark for other manufacturers to follow with green energy adoption strategies. The ENGIE–AJCC partnership is a model for private sector collaboration in climate action and green energy transformation. It helps build technical capacity and encourages renewable energy investments in Saudi Arabia’s industrial landscape.

Local talent and engineering firms may benefit from the construction, operation, and maintenance phases. The initiative supports Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming a global leader in renewable energy and innovation. It contributes to both economic diversification and environmental protection in line with national goals.

By reducing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency, this project fosters sustainable industrial development across the region. The initiative demonstrates that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand in industrial operations.

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