Saudi Electricity Company And KAUST Initiate Innovative Carbon Capture Research At Rabigh Power Plant

The Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), in partnership with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), has initiated a pioneering research project at the Rabigh Power Plant. This project, overseen by the Ministry of Energy, focuses on capturing carbon and pollutants using innovative freezing techniques. The aim is to reduce emissions from fuel combustion, including carbon dioxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.

Eng. Khalid bin Salim AlGhamdi, Acting CEO of SEC, highlighted the importance of this project in supporting Saudi Arabia's carbon capture initiatives. He stated that these efforts reflect SEC's dedication to technological partnerships that advance sustainability in the energy sector. "These partnerships contribute to achieving the Kingdom's environmental initiatives and fostering sustainability in the energy sector," he stated.

This research involves developing a mobile platform capable of capturing up to 250 kilograms of carbon dioxide daily. This serves as a practical model for applying carbon capture technology across the power generation industry. The captured carbon achieves an impressive purity level of up to 99%, showcasing the technology's efficiency.

The collaboration with KAUST is crucial for researching and implementing technological solutions that benefit Saudi Arabia's environment. This aligns with global trends towards clean energy. The project represents a significant milestone in demonstrating the effectiveness of new carbon capture technology in reducing emissions within a challenging sector.

This initiative aligns with SEC's sustainability objectives and commitment to achieving net-zero emissions. It also supports the Saudi Green Initiative's goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060 or earlier through circular carbon economy techniques. The project's success depends on the maturity and availability of necessary technologies.

The research aims to set a precedent for widespread adoption of carbon capture methods in power generation. By addressing emissions from fuel combustion, it contributes significantly to environmental protection efforts within Saudi Arabia and beyond.

This project not only highlights SEC's commitment to innovation but also underscores its role in advancing environmental sustainability through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge research.

With inputs from SPA