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Saudi Arabia’s Journey toward a Renewable Future

Author

Listed:
  • Saad F. Al-Gahtani

    (Electrical Engineering Department, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
    Center for Engineering and Technology Innovations, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia)

Abstract

Recent statistics indicate that as of 2023, the global renewable energy capacity has reached new heights, with Saudi Arabia significantly contributing to this growth through its strategic initiatives. The kingdom is particularly focusing on harnessing solar power, given its abundant sunlight, and is also exploring wind energy, leveraging its vast desert landscapes. These efforts are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to become a global leader in renewable energy. This paper provides a detailed exploration of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious journey from a fossil-fuel-dominated energy sector to a more sustainable, renewable-energy-driven future. Anchored in the broader context of global energy trends, the study emphasizes the critical shift toward renewable resources, with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia’s unique position in this global movement. Key to this transition is Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a strategic framework that guides the country’s renewable energy policies and initiatives. A comprehensive review of these policies, including other governmental and international collaborations that support renewable energy development, is offered. The current state of renewable energy in Saudi Arabia is assessed, including an overview of existing projects and production statistics. The paper also explores emerging technologies such as energy storage systems and smart grid solutions, emphasizing their role in Saudi Arabia’s energy transition. An impact assessment is conducted to understand the environmental, economic, and social effects of this energy shift. The paper also includes a comparative analysis of other countries’ renewable energy transitions, extracting lessons and best practices applicable to the Saudi context. Strategic recommendations and reflections on Saudi Arabia’s future role in the global energy landscape are provided for stakeholders in energy policy, environmental planning, and sustainable development.

Suggested Citation

  • Saad F. Al-Gahtani, 2024. "Saudi Arabia’s Journey toward a Renewable Future," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-19, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:11:p:2444-:d:1398432
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Jim Krane, 2022. "Net zero Saudi Arabia: how green can the oil kingdom get?," Working Papers EPRG2217, Energy Policy Research Group, Cambridge Judge Business School, University of Cambridge.
    2. Amjad Ali, 2023. "Transforming Saudi Arabia’s Energy Landscape towards a Sustainable Future: Progress of Solar Photovoltaic Energy Deployment," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(10), pages 1-21, May.
    3. Ahmed Sulaiman Alsafran, 2023. "A Feasibility Study of Implementing IEEE 1547 and IEEE 2030 Standards for Microgrid in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(4), pages 1-15, February.
    4. Fahad Saleh Al-Ismail & Md Shafiul Alam & Md Shafiullah & Md Ismail Hossain & Syed Masiur Rahman, 2023. "Impacts of Renewable Energy Generation on Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(6), pages 1-19, March.
    5. AlNemer, Hashem A. & Hkiri, Besma & Tissaoui, Kais, 2023. "Dynamic impact of renewable and non-renewable energy consumption on CO2 emission and economic growth in Saudi Arabia: Fresh evidence from wavelet coherence analysis," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 209(C), pages 340-356.
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