Saudi Arabia energy transition in a post-paris agreement era: An analysis with a multi-level perspective approach

Abstract

This paper examines the factors that play a role in shaping modern energy transition in Saudi Arabia, a particularly hydrocarbon-rich country. We base our analysis on the three lenses of the multi-level perspective (MLP) approach: landscape, regime, and niche. The findings indicate that the interaction between external (enforcement of international climate treaties and concerns about the potential adverse impacts of accelerated global energy transition) and internal factors (growing domestic energy consumption and the rise of GHG emissions) play a significant role in shaping Saudi Arabia modern energy transition: one that evolved from a cautious approach to a progressive one. The findings indicate that niche and landscape factors play a minimal role in exerting any pressure on sociotechnical regimes, and the success of the clean energy transition in Saudi Arabia is conditional on direct government support. Aligning landscape, regime, and niche developments are recommended to ensure a holistic energy transition.