The Future of Clean Power in Saudi Arabia

As Saudi Arabia advances toward its ambitious goal of deploying 40 GWp of solar capacity by 2030, the private sector is stepping up to play a transformative role. One company at the forefront of this transition is Yellow Door Energy. We spoke to Hisham Alhegelan, CEO Middle East of Yellow Door Energy, to discuss the company’s contributions to Saudi Arabia’s sustainability goals, its innovative renewable energy projects and the pride of progress on Saudi National Day. 

“Saudi Arabia’s 40 GWp solar target is both ambitious and achievable, and we see ourselves as an active partner in this journey,” says Alhegelan. “Our solar leasing model removes the barrier of upfront investment, making it easier for businesses to adopt clean energy solutions. By reducing electricity costs, cutting carbon emissions, and hedging against fuel price volatility, we help companies transition to sustainable operations while directly supporting the Kingdom’s Net Zero goals.”

That mission is already visible on the ground. In partnership with SIG, Yellow Door Energy is installing more than 3,200 solar panels across four rooftops in Riyadh. The 2 MWp system will generate 3.5 million kWh annually and offset 1,300 metric tons of CO₂, supporting MODON’s Green Initiative. Another landmark collaboration with Tamimi Markets will bring 1,500 bifacial solar panels to facilities in Jeddah and Dammam, producing 1.5 million kWh a year and avoiding nearly 600 metric tons of CO₂ emissions.

For Alhegelan, a seasoned executive with over two decades of leadership experience across renewable energy, government and private enterprises, the task is more than energy projects. “My career has given me a perspective at the intersection of policy, strategy and execution,” he reflects. “At Yellow Door Energy, this means leading a talented team to deliver sustainable energy solutions that not only lower costs but also align directly with Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s economic transformation.”

For Saudi Arabia to realize its bold sustainability goals, the private sector must act as a critical driver of innovation and progress. According to Alhegelan, Yellow Door Energy is a case in point. “We work closely with local stakeholders to deliver tailored renewable energy solutions. By enhancing energy resilience, fostering job creation, and promoting knowledge transfer, the private sector can help build a low-carbon energy future in partnership with public initiatives,” he says.

Looking ahead, Yellow Door Energy plans to expand across energy-intensive sectors. “We’ve already signed five solar leases to bring clean power to 13 factories across Saudi Arabia,” Alhegelan explains. “With rising costs and stronger sustainability mandates, the greatest opportunities lie in helping businesses transition to renewables while improving competitiveness. Backed by a strong team and a clear vision, we aim to be the trusted partner for companies seeking long-term energy resilience.”

This vision carries special significance as the Kingdom marks its 95th National Day. “This year’s theme, Pride in Our Nature, reflects the generosity, hospitality, solidarity, bravery, ambition, and innovation that define Saudis,” says Alhegelan. Born in Spain and fluent in Spanish and French, he brings an international outlook to his Saudi heritage. “It is a moment of immense pride to witness the transformation unfolding in Saudi Arabia. At Yellow Door Energy, we are honored to contribute by supporting the Kingdom’s sustainability ambitions. Together, we are building a greener, more resilient future for generations to come.”