Review of the renewable energy outlook in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Currently, existing technologies of energy generation based on fossil fuels and production processes of crude oil usually accompanied by flaring of gases resulted in excessive CO2 emissions. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) national oil consumption is increasing by 7% annually. If this growth rate continues, local demands will be doubled in a decade. This study has covered various renewable energy solutions such as solar thermal hybrid solutions, photovoltaic cells/arrays, and wind turbines. A selection of possible applications of sustainable buildings, wind farming, solar energy, and their futures are discussed. From the crisis viewpoint of energy and environment safety, architectural trends have shifted toward sustainability demands. Energy and ecology were impetus to improve the residents' life quality and health standards. The climate/building correlation has been established to observe the response between both of them. Five distinguished coastal locations in KSA have given the consideration for wind farms, where meteorological data have been recorded since 1970. In contrast to the hot and irksome weather, water misting systems are elaborated to settle a soothing atmosphere. The results are noticed for evaporation and robbing the excessive heat. It is known that health is dependent on clean and unpolluted air, and the pollution has a threat for public health everywhere. So, an induction of renewable energy future has been considered. Gas turbine technology is also discussed as it accounts for about half of the overall capability of the KSA's power generation. Temperature, humidity, and pressure conditions have been accounted as important factors that affect gas turbine performance to produce electricity. An outlook of domestic energy cost is also reviewed. Furthermore, this study has focused on the necessity of maintaining a green and clean environment as well as a climate of lowest dust content. “Reference prices” concept has been clearly comprehended and understood. The contradiction of real opportunities and marginal costs has been explained. An important issue regarding depletion of resources that are depleted exhaustible has been studied. This issue has been tackled and being showed from the starting point. Alternative solutions to provide new energy sources are assumed.