RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power has entered into an agreement with Japan’s ITOCHU Corp. during COP29 to strengthen investments in environmental infrastructure and renewable energy across the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa. As outlined in a press release, the memorandum of understanding aligns with ACWA Power’s broader mission to address the “energy quadrilemma” — ensuring energy and water are provided affordably, reliably, sustainably, and rapidly. Both companies share a vision for accelerating the global energy transition, leveraging their unique strengths to create transformative solutions in renewables and water desalination. Marco Arcelli, CEO of ACWA Power, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to strengthen our strategic collaboration with ITOCHU Corp. through this new memorandum of understanding, signed at COP29 in Azerbaijan.” He further added: “This partnership — which spans across various geographies and technologies — will benefit from our expertise in renewable energy sources, water desalination, and green hydrogen.” Arcelli highlighted the company’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, a full decade ahead of Saudi Arabia’s national target, noting that it “aligns perfectly with the global sustainability agenda.” The MoU, in collaboration with ITOCHU’s extensive network and resources, will facilitate mutual growth ambitions and open up new opportunities for Japanese investors in the clean energy sector, according to the CEO. “Together, we are poised to make significant strides in accelerating the energy transition and addressing climate change challenges,” he concluded. Headquartered in Riyadh, ACWA Power is the world’s largest private water desalination company and a leader in renewable energy and green hydrogen. Its portfolio spans 90 projects in 13 countries, with a total investment value of $94.7 billion. ITOCHU Corp., founded in 1858, is one of Japan’s leading multinational trading and investment companies. With operations in 61 countries and approximately 90 bases worldwide, ITOCHU boasts a diversified portfolio that includes renewable energy projects and water infrastructure. Through this partnership with ACWA Power, “ITOCHU aims not only to contribute to regions expecting economic growth and population increases but also to achieve a balance between responding to societal needs and business expansion.” The collaboration is expected to advance progress in renewable energy projects, including high-efficiency combined cycle power plants and green hydrogen production, with both companies dedicated to addressing climate change and advancing global sustainability initiatives. Earlier this year, ACWA Power signed multiple agreements with Japanese companies on May 21, during the Saudi-Japan Vision 2030 Business Forum, to further the sustainable energy transition and attract foreign investment. The forum, held in Tokyo, brought together over 300 industry officials and leaders to discuss ways to enhance trade, investment, and cultural ties.