The Supervisory Committee for Privatization of the Environment, Water and Agriculture sector of Saudi Arabia has suspended the privatisation project of the Ras al-Khair desalination plant, reports Energy & Utilities.
Earlier this month the Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) extended the deadline for submitting bids for the Ras al-Khair project. Seven companies and consortia had been invited to submit their bids to participate in the project last February.
The Ras al-Khair plant has a value of up to $3.5 billion, and a desalination capacity of over one million cubic metres per day.
The Supervisory Committee for Privatization has announced in a statement that the reason to suspend the tender was “to capitalise on knowledge and capacity built in the kingdom as a result of many years of experience in the areas of water desalination, new technologies, R&D and supply chains. A new engagement strategy and plan for the Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) assets such as Ras al-Khair plant will be announced shortly.”
“During the interim, SWCC will continue to be responsible for the management, operation and maintenance of the Ras al-Khair desalination and power plant, ensuring the continuity and security of supply of water and power to clients.”
