Project Case Study: Rapid Deployment of Modular Accommodation in Saudi Arabia

Project Overview

As Saudi Arabia increases its focus on renewable energy, building large solar farms in remote areas presents huge logistical challenges. A key issue is providing safe and comfortable housing for the many skilled workers and staff needed on-site. For a major photovoltaic plant, our client asked for a durable accommodation solution that could be quickly set up without compromising quality or comfort, and that could also withstand the harsh desert environment.

The objective is a comprehensive, turnkey housing solution capable of accommodating over 200 people, including living quarters, sanitation facilities, and all essential amenities. Meeting tight deadlines was crucial to ensure the photovoltaic (PV) project remained on schedule.

Challenge: Providing Housing for Workers in a Harsh Desert Environment

• Speed: Traditional construction methods are too slow and prone to delays caused by weather or other factors, which can raise project costs.
• Location: Construction on-site is complicated and expensive due to the remote location and lack of local infrastructure and resources.
• Climate Conditions: The housing needed to be well insulated, able to withstand extreme heat, and durable enough to endure sandstorms and drought.
• Scalability: The housing solution had to be modular and scalable to support future development.

Solution: Modular Container Accommodation

In response to these challenges, the DXH Container manufacturer designed and delivered a comprehensive workforce housing solution using prefabricated container houses. This approach was chosen for its unmatched speed, quality control, and cost-efficiency.

The project involved fabricating and installing more than 200 individual container units, which collectively formed a fully operational living camp.

Key Features of the Solution

1. Structural Foundation and Assembly: A solid concrete block foundation was prepared first to ensure stability and a level surface for the entire camp. The steel frames of the container units were then erected, showing the strong core structure of each container building.
2. Rapid and Efficient Installation: The structure's modular design of the containers enabled quick on-site assembly. Once the frames were set, insulated wall panels and a sturdy roof were promptly added to enclose the structures and protect them from the elements. This significantly expedited the construction timeline compared to traditional building methods.
3. Durable and Climate-Resistant Design: Each container unit features insulated sandwich panel walls and a pitched metal roof, designed to reflect solar radiation and offer superior thermal performance. This helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while reducing air conditioning costs.
4. Complete Interior Furnishings: All housing units come fully furnished and ready for immediate occupancy. Each includes cozy beds, desks, and storage spaces, along with a modern private bathroom comprising a toilet, sink, and shower, ensuring a comfortable and private living environment.
5. Organized Site Layout: The container units are arranged neatly with paved walkways, creating an organized and accessible community environment. This thoughtful layout improves the living experience for workers.

Outcome: A Successful Container Dormitory Supporting Saudi Arabia's Photovoltaic Site

The project was completed on time and offers a comfortable, safe "home away from home" for employees advancing Saudi Arabia's renewable energy goals. The modular container solution met all project requirements and delivered a large, high-quality accommodation facility in a fraction of the time needed for traditional construction.

The success of this camp, with over 200 units, demonstrates how modular construction can effectively build large industrial and energy projects in challenging environments. It provides a smart, efficient, and scalable housing solution for workers worldwide.