In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been making major progress in adopting green technology, specifically in solar energy. KSA is using its abundant sunlight to move towards a sustainable future and decrease its reliance on fossil fuels. The ambitious endeavor supports worldwide efforts to fight climate change and creates new economic development and technological progress possibilities.
Saudi Arabia’s Ambitious Renewable Energy Efforts
The Ministry of Energy recently announced that KSA ranked first in the world for growth in renewable energy production. This achievement comes two years after the launch of the Saudi Green Initiative by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
After two years after SGI’s launch, the Kingdom’s accomplishments have contributed to KSA’s rise of 10 positions in the Green Future Index’s overall ranking. In addition, it ranked as the top country in the Arab world and 20th globally for the CO2 emission growth indicator.
Solar energy has become more important to KSA’s domestic energy supply in recent years as it is the country’s energy transition centerpiece. Over the past decade, the cost of producing solar power has decreased by approximately 90%, making it a more affordable option compared to oil.
The Kingdom is constructing new solar farms, including the Sakaka Solar Power Plant, to establish 41 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2032. Sakaka, a new facility that began operating in April 2021, produces electricity using photovoltaic energy. It covers an area of 6sq. Km and has 1.2 million solar panels. The capacity of the site is 300 megawatts, which is sufficient to provide electricity to 44,000 households. Moreover, the solar farm has achieved the world record for the most economical cost in the photovoltaic energy industry.
The Kingdom also launched the biggest clean hydrogen production hub globally. It anticipates to have a capacity of 250,000 tons per year by 2060. Moreover, the SGI led to the initiation of the primary stage of the most extensive Carbon Capture, Usage, and Storage (CCUS) center in Jubail, capable of holding 9 million tons per year. By 2035, it will have the potential to hold a maximum of 44 million tons annually.
Recently, Saudi Arabia approved a list of 106 solar power installation companies. The decision is in line with KSA’s goal of having 50% renewable energy by 2030. The Saudi Electricity and Water Regulatory Authority approved a list of contractors and experts who can design, inspect, install, and manage small photovoltaic solar energy systems in homes and businesses.
Takeaways
Saudi Arabia’s amazing growth in solar energy shows that it remains dedicated to green technology and sustainable growth. By using the sun’s energy, KSA is increasing its number of energy sources, reducing its carbon footprint, creating jobs, and making itself more energy independent. The continued growth of solar energy shows that KSA commits to using green energy and fighting climate change.
