China Energy Consortium Begins Construction of Major 2GW Wind Power Substation Project in Saudi Arabia

China Energy Consortium has officially commenced construction of the Starah 2GW Wind Power Substation Project in Saudi Arabia marking a significant milestone in the countrys renewable energy expansion under Vision 2030. The project successfully broke ground in January 2026 transitioning into the substantive construction phase.

Located in the central highlands of Saudi Arabia the massive Starah Wind Project spans 485 square kilometers across two separate packages with sites approximately 120 kilometers apart. China Energy Engineering Corporation Global has secured the contract for civil works encompassing 7 substations and 1 operation and maintenance building.

The comprehensive scope of work includes construction of main transformer foundations outdoor equipment foundations firewalls GIS buildings control buildings operation and maintenance facilities and fire pump houses. This infrastructure will support the 2000MW wind power generation capacity making it one of the largest renewable energy projects in the region.

The Starah project is part of a larger renewable energy initiative that includes the 1000MW Shaqra wind project also located in Saudi Arabias central region. Together these developments represent a combined 3000MW of wind power capacity contributing significantly to the kingdoms clean energy transformation goals.

The project consortium comprises China Energy International Group China Energy Engineering Group Guangdong Power Engineering and China Energy Engineering Group Northwest China Electric Power Test Research Institute. Chinese wind turbine manufacturer Goldwind will supply the wind turbines for both the Starah and Shaqra projects under separate supply contracts.

With a construction timeline of 30 months for the Starah project the development is expected to generate substantial clean electricity output over its operational lifespan. The project forms part of Saudi Arabias broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and reduce carbon emissions while supporting economic growth through renewable energy investments.

The Saudi Power Procurement Company serves as the offtaker for the electricity generated from the project ensuring long term power purchase arrangements. Upon completion the Starah Wind Project will significantly enhance regional clean energy supply capacity and contribute to Saudi Arabias ambitious renewable energy targets under Vision 2030.