ACWA Power, a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, has reached another milestone—its entry into China’s renewable energy market. With over 1GW of projects already underway, this bold move showcases a company that doesn’t just lead but collaborates, forging pathways to a more sustainable future.
At the heart of this expansion is a focus on teamwork and shared goals, values that resonate deeply with Marco Arcelli, ACWA Power’s CEO. “Becoming a CEO doesn’t mean you’re the most important person in the room,” Marco shared in a recent conversation. “It means you’re part of a team working toward a shared goal.” This philosophy has guided ACWA Power’s approach to building partnerships, both within Saudi Arabia and globally.
In China, ACWA Power’s collaboration with Sungrow Renewables and Mingyang Smart Energy marks a significant step in the company’s global strategy. A $312 million investment will support solar and wind projects across multiple provinces, forming the foundation for a larger, 1GW portfolio. “We are not just investing in renewable energy projects but in Chinese expertise and building long-term relationships within the country,” Marco explained.
But this is more than just a story about global expansion. It’s about Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a hub of innovation and talent. At ACWA Power, Saudisation is a cornerstone of the mission, with the majority of its workforce drawn from within the Kingdom. The company’s Energy Water Academy (EWA) ensures that Saudi nationals are equipped with the skills needed to lead in the energy sector. “Our team isn’t just filling positions; they’re driving forward the future of energy,” Marco emphasised, reflecting the broader ambition of Vision 2030 to create a highly skilled workforce. To date, more than 15,000 students have participated in the academy’s programmes.
While the projects in China are groundbreaking, Marco views them as part of a larger picture. The company’s global portfolio now spans 94 projects in 13 countries, with a combined capacity of 69 GW of power and over 8.05 million cubic meters of desalinated water daily.
“2024 was a year of milestones for ACWA Power, but 2025 is about scaling new heights, building partnerships, and driving the global energy transition.”
Marco Arcelli, CEO ACWA Power
Marco’s decision to join ACWA Power was rooted in the same sense of purpose that now drives its international ventures. Initially hesitant about relocating to Saudi Arabia, he changed his mind after learning about Vision 2030. “It’s not just a national plan; it’s a unifying force,” he said. “I realised this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of something transformative.”
ACWA Power’s China strategy is a bold step forward, but its essence remains deeply tied to its roots in Saudi Arabia. The company’s partnerships with institutions like King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) exemplify its commitment to innovation tailored to local needs, whether addressing desert dust on solar panels or developing energy-efficient desalination techniques.
As ACWA Power expands its global footprint, it remains a testament to what can be achieved when vision, collaboration, and purpose converge. “This is only the beginning,” Marco said, with a characteristic mix of humility and ambition. Through projects like those in China, ACWA Power isn’t just leading the energy transition—it’s redefining what it means to build a sustainable future.
