China-based energy storage solutions manufacturer HiTHIUM has secured a contract from the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) to implement two battery energy storage system (BESS) projects with a combined capacity of 4 gigawatt hours (GWh), in the northern provinces of Tabuk and Hail, Saudi Arabia.
The projects will leverage HiTHIUM's long-duration energy storage battery cells in 6.25 megawatt-hour (MWh) BESS units.
This collaboration with Alfanar Projects is a stride towards realising Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, aiming to improve grid stability and facilitate the integration of renewable energy.
The BESS projects will utilise HiTHIUM's ∞Cell 1175Ah technology, which is the inaugural mass-produced long-duration energy storage solution in the world.
They feature ∞Power 6.25MWh Desert Eagle series containerised systems designed to withstand the country's extreme climate conditions.
The systems’ multi-layer insulation lessens internal temperatures by between 8°C and 10°C, offering reliable operation in temperatures ranging from -30°C to 60°C.
Entirely sealed components and automated dust alerts are incorporated to reduce maintenance requirements, with intricate parts rated for 40,000 hours of continuous operation.
The BESS units will deliver intricate grid services such as load shifting, frequency regulation, black-start capabilities [the ability of a power plant or generating station to restart a dead power grid after a complete shutdown, using only on-site power sources] and voltage support.
This will allow a higher penetration of renewable energy sources and minimise dependency on fossil fuels.
HiTHIUM, as the technology provider, will manage system design, supply, installation monitoring and long-term maintenance.
Alfanar Projects is set to spearhead the construction phase, with the commissioning of the projects aimed for 2026.
HiTHIUM MEA president Keramat Fakhari stated: “This landmark 4GWh project marks a pivotal moment — not just for Saudi Arabia, but for HiTHIUM’s commitment to delivering mission-critical energy storage where it matters most.
“By integrating our industry-leading ∞Cell technology with SEC’s vision and Alfanar’s regional expertise, we’re redefining renewable integration in extreme environments. The deployments in Tabuk and Hail set a new benchmark for gigawatt-scale storage globally, proving HiTHIUM’s role in accelerating the clean energy transition.”
This development follows HiTHIUM's global collaboration with Samsung C&T Engineering & Construction Group in January 2025, aimed at capitalising on the increasing global demand for energy storage solutions.
