National Center for Privatization cancels tender for Ras Al-Khair desalination, power plant

The Supervisory Committee for the Privatization of the Environment, Water and Agriculture Sector decided to cancel the offering of the desalination and power plant in Ras Al-Khair, in line with the Kingdom's directions to invest the accumulated experiences and existing topnotch desalination assets, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

In a statement, the committee said it is preparing for announcing the new directions and aspirations after completing the necessary arrangements and obtaining the required regulatory approvals.

The committee appreciated the participation of local and international companies and alliances in offering the desalination and electric power plant in Ras Al-Khair, stressing its keenness to offer new projects and opportunities in the environment, water, and agriculture sector, as part of the privatization and partnership between the public and private sectors.

According to the statement, the committee indicated that Saline Water Conversion Corp. (SWCC) will continue to manage, operate, and maintain the plant. It is also committed to providing customers with desalinated water and electric power generated from the plant, without any change or delay. This goes in line with the Vision 2030 goals, which include achieving water security in the Kingdom, providing high-quality services, and improving the local water desalination industry.

In July, SWCC announced that non-binding expression of interest (EOI) for Ras Al-Khair desalination and power plant privatization were received from 37 international and regional strategic and financial firms, Argaam earlier reported.