BYD and SEC: The World's Biggest Battery Storage Deal
Battery storage plays a growing role in energy systems, acting as a stabiliser for grids under pressure from rising renewable inputs.
These systems help smooth energy delivery, keep costs manageable and cut dependency on fossil fuels.
Now, BYD Energy Storage and Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) push this technology into new territory.
Their partnership is set to deliver a world-first: 15.1GWh of energy storage across Saudi Arabia.
A record-breaking collaboration for grid-scale storage
BYD Energy Storage and SEC have finalised a deal to roll out 12.5GWh of new grid-scale battery storage, making it the largest project of its kind in the world.
Together with an earlier 2.6GWh project, the total capacity under their partnership now stands at a record 15.1GWh.
This agreement puts Saudi Arabia at the centre of energy transition efforts.
It aligns directly with Vision 2030 — a national programme that aims for renewables to account for 50% of electricity generation by the end of the decade.
The new systems will be installed across five different sites in the Kingdom and linked directly to the national transmission grid.
The approach reflects Saudi Arabia’s strategy for an optimal energy mix, balancing conventional power with solar, wind and storage to create a more flexible and resilient grid.
In BYD’s words, the deal is “a solid and crucial step forward in their collaboration in the renewable energy sector, injecting strong momentum into the development of Saudi Arabia's renewable energy industry".
Advanced battery systems to improve grid performance
Central to this rollout is BYD’s MC Cube-T energy storage system, paired with its Cell-to-System (CTS) technology.
CTS refers to a process where battery cells are integrated directly into a storage system without the need for intermediate modules or packs, allowing for better energy density and thermal control.
This design enables a volume cell-to-system (Vcts) index of more than 33%, a metric that indicates how efficiently the internal cell volume is utilised.
These battery energy storage systems (BESS) are designed to handle peak demand periods, ensure power continuity and support the smooth integration of intermittent renewable energy into the grid.
As energy storage captures and releases electricity when needed, it creates a more predictable and reliable power supply.
This technology-led approach is part of BYD’s broader strategy.
Over the past 17 years, the company has delivered more than 75GWh of energy storage equipment to over 350 projects across 110 countries.
Its solutions span generation, transmission and consumption, forming an end-to-end chain from research and development through to after-sales service.
The joint statement from BYD and SEC said the partnership “marks an enhancement in Saudi Arabia's energy utilisation efficiency and promotes leapfrog development in the renewable energy sector".
Impacts for Saudi Arabia and beyond
Battery storage is not just a technical solution — it plays a strategic role in the global shift towards cleaner energy systems.
As technologies like BESS scale up, they provide the backup needed to support renewables and reduce the volatility of supply.
This collaboration confirms growing market trust in electro-chemistry-based energy storage and BYD’s ability to deliver on time and at scale.
BYD notes that its “leading technological advantages, exceptional delivery capabilities, comprehensive after-sales support system and all-around comprehensive strength” have gained “high praise and deep recognition from the global market, reaching the peak of the industry".
BYD says it will increase its investment in research, expand its international presence and continue enhancing its offerings.
The company frames this project not as a conclusion but a launchpad for deeper partnerships and technological growth.
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