In a significant step to become a regional green energy hub, Egypt has broken ground on the Atum Solar Complex a major solar manufacturing facility in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone). The $210 million project, led by an international consortium including China’s JA Solar aims to produce solar panels, cells and battery storage systems for domestic and export markets.
The complex will comprise three integrated facilities with a total annual capacity of:
- 2 GW of solar cells (for export)
- 2 GW of solar panels
- 1 GWh of energy storage systems (ESS)
Strategically located in the Sokhna Industrial Zone on a 200,000 sq. meter plot, the project is a collaboration between JA Solar (China), AH Industrial Management (Egypt), Global South Utilities (UAE) and Infinity Capital (Bahrain). It is expected to create 850 direct jobs.
A Strategic Export-Oriented Project
A key feature of the project is its export-focused strategy. While the solar panels and battery systems will supply both Egypt and the wider region, the entire 2 GW solar cell production will be exported. This leverages Egypt’s strategic location and free trade agreements to access global markets, turning the country into a manufacturing exporter of key green energy components.
Part of a Broader Green Industrial Push
The groundbreaking was attended by Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development, Kamel Al-Wazir, who highlighted the project’s role in localizing green energy industries and replacing imports. The Atum Complex is part of a series of recent solar manufacturing announcements in Egypt, including solar glass factories planned by Chinese firms Kibing Solar and CSH Holding.
By establishing this integrated complex, Egypt is positioning itself at the center of the regional energy transition, aiming to capture value across the solar supply chain—from raw materials like local aluminum and glass to finished products for global markets.