ZOE Energy Storage has entered into a joint venture (JV) with a Saudi partner to establish the Kingdom’s first large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) manufacturing facility.

The company will construct the plant in two phases, with the initial phase targeting a 6GWh production capacity set to begin operations in the first quarter of 2027.

The second phase aims to increase output to 18GWh, significantly expanding local storage manufacturing capacity and reducing reliance on imports for the Kingdom’s energy sector.

The facility, covering 150 acres, will operate according to leading European manufacturing standards and seek “Made in Saudi” certification, ensuring compliance with local grid requirements.

In line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the project is expected to contribute to the country’s renewable energy ambitions, which include targets of 130GW of renewables, 48GWh of storage, and a goal of producing half the nation’s power from clean sources.

Beyond local production, the plant will supply BESS to markets across the Gulf region, the Middle East and North Africa, Central Asia, and Africa.

Plans include the establishment of a Green Energy Academy on site to train certified professionals, aiming to deepen domestic expertise in energy storage technologies.

This facility represents ZOE Energy Storage’s second international manufacturing base, following a similar project in Hungary.

The JV is part of the company’s global strategy to integrate its proprietary energy storage technology with local manufacturing and international service presence.

The upcoming plant is tailored for operation in extreme desert conditions, delivering specialised storage solutions to similar environments worldwide.

ZOE Energy Group chairman Huang Jun said: “The Middle East is a key engine of global energy transformation. This manufacturing base is a decisive step in our global strategy.”

He stated that ZOE will continue to provide its technology, maintain quality standards, and deliver comprehensive service to support the region’s transition to green energy and contribute to the development of a local energy storage ecosystem.

The move supports Saudi Arabia’s efforts to strengthen self-sufficiency in energy storage supply and is designed to boost regional and international progress toward lower-carbon energy systems.