Analysis of solution strategies for the transition to renewable energy in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The shift from fossil fuels to low-carbon energy solutions is crucial to mitigate the effects of climate change. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has formulated a policy framework to accelerate the development of renewable energy (RE) as part of Vision 2030. Therefore, the transition to RE is vital for reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change. Nevertheless, critical barriers hinder RE adoption in the KSA. This study identified several main barriers, sub-barriers, and solution strategies for the analysis. Therefore, the fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method was incorporated to evaluate seven barriers and twenty-eight sub-barriers. Later, the fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method was used to prioritize the nine solution strategies for adopting RE technologies in the KSA. The fuzzy AHP results emphasize that technological, environmental, and market barriers obstruct RE adoption. Fuzzy TOPSIS indicates that public awareness campaigns, energy subsidy reforms, and modernization of the energy grid are the most suitable solutions for the adoption of RE technologies in the KSA. Consequently, this research will help governments, stakeholders, and policymakers expedite RE adoption by determining these barriers and strategies to achieve the Saudi Vision 2030 goal.