Saudi Arabia, long known for its vast oil wealth, has embarked on a historic transformation of its energy sector, setting an ambitious target of generating 130 gigawatts (GW) of solar power by 2030.

According to The Wall Street Journal, several large-scale solar projects have already been launched across the Kingdom, with some reaching completion.

The country’s expansive deserts are rapidly being covered with solar panels, underscoring Riyadh’s commitment to becoming a global leader in renewable energy.

Official figures reveal that Saudi Arabia’s solar production capacity surged to 4,340 megawatts (MW) in 2024, up from 2,585 MW in 2023.

The government has pledged that by 2030, half of the Kingdom’s electricity will be generated through renewable sources.

Officials stress that this shift is not only driven by environmental concerns but also by strong economic incentives, as solar power has emerged as the world’s cheapest and fastest-growing alternative energy source.

The bold move signals Saudi Arabia’s determination to position itself as a new leader in global energy markets, redefining its legacy from an oil giant to a renewable energy powerhouse.