Does Saudi Arabia need solar power?

The use of solar energy has progressively grown over the past few years to meet increasing energy demands worldwide and, in turn, increased global demand for solar panels. In Saudi Arabia, solar power is a significant piece of its 2030 vision and economic plan (Vision 2030).

Why is Saudi Arabia investing in solar energy?

Leveraging its abundant sunshine and vast desert areas, Saudi Arabia is now pivoting to solar energy, aligning with its Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and ensure sustainable growth by reducing oil dependency and investing in renewable energy.

Which solar energy projects are completed in Saudi Arabia by 2030?

The Lunch of Saudi Solar Energy Program Sakaka, Al Shuaibah, and Sudair Solar Energy Projects have been completed By 2030, the gaol is 40GW PV solar and 2.7GW (CSP) concentrated solar power capacity

Where in Saudi Arabia is solar power coming from?

Key locations include Sakaka in Al Jouf Province, Al Shuaibah in Makkah Province, and Sudair in Riyadh Province, among others. These projects capitalize on Saudi Arabia's geographical position and favorable weather conditions to generate solar power. Solar energy is set to expand nationwide.

Does Saudi Arabia have a solar industry?

Yet this is not to say that Saudi Arabia’s solar industry is non-existent, merely that it has invested more readily in foreign projects than ones on its own doorstep. ACWA Power, which is part-owned by the Saudi Arabian Government, has backed the largest private solar power projects in both Egypt and South Africa.

Is there a future for Saudi Arabia's energy sector?

KAUST’s Stefaan De Wolf believes there is a great opportunity for cheap and abundant photovoltaics and other renewable sources of energy, such as wind, to electrify the country’s energy sector. “There are huge opportunities for Saudi Arabia, thanks to its abundant solar irradiance,” he says.