Saudi Arabia Embarks On Extensive Survey For Renewable Energy Sites

Saudi Arabia has initiated the Geographic Survey Project for Renewable Energy sites, awarding contracts to local companies to set up 1,200 stations to measure solar and wind energy across the Kingdom, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Prince AbdulAziz bin Salman bin AbdulAziz Al Saud, Minister of Energy, highlighted that this project is part of the National Renewable Energy Programme. He emphasised its global uniqueness in terms of geographical coverage, spanning over 850,000 square kilometres. This area excludes populated regions, sand dunes, and restricted airspace.

Solar energy measurement stations will be equipped with advanced devices at ground level. These stations will record various metrics such as Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI), Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI), Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance (DHI), dust and pollutant deposition rates, ground-reflected radiation (albedo), ambient temperature, rainfall levels, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure.

Wind energy measurement stations will be installed at different heights, up to 120 meters. These stations will measure wind speed and direction, ambient temperature, atmospheric pressure, and relative humidity.

The project aims to achieve the optimal energy mix targets for electricity production. By 2030, renewable energy sources are expected to comprise about 50% of the energy mix. This initiative also supports the Liquid Fuel Displacement Programme by reducing reliance on liquid fuel for electricity generation.

Starting in 2024, Saudi Arabia plans to tender new renewable energy projects with an annual capacity of 20 gigawatts. The goal is to reach between 100 and 130 gigawatts by 2030, depending on electricity demand growth.

Prince AbdulAziz noted that no other country has conducted a geographic survey of this scale. The surveyed area is comparable to the combined land areas of countries like the UK and France or Germany and Spain.

This extensive survey will cover all regions of the Kingdom. It aims to provide comprehensive data for renewable energy development while excluding populated areas and other restricted zones.

The initiative reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainable energy solutions. It aligns with global efforts to transition towards renewable energy sources and reduce carbon emissions.

With inputs from WAM