Saudi Arabia is putting a lot of effort into ensuring the country enjoys a green future. Sustainability is one of the core elements of the country’s economic vision. It’s the linchpin of its Green Initiative. Nowadays, its exemplified by the Kingdom’s National Renewable Energy Program.
The Kingdom has several effective low-carbon schemes in place. One is for communities and organizations to adopt energy-efficient strategies. These will lessen the power demand. It also encourages the greening of the existing energy supply. For example, buildings will become retrofitted. This is to maximize the power used in their air conditioning and other systems.
HVAC systems are ideal for generating efficiencies. Cooling and heating often comprise 40% to 60% of a building’s energy consumption. Becoming more energy efficient lets them make significant contributions to energy savings.
These retrofits can also complement city initiatives. Streetlights are a good example. These take up 40% of a municipality’s electricity. They also account for 15% of the world’s power consumption and 5% of CO2 emissions. Replacing them with smart, energy-efficient, lights can result in about 80% savings.
Ideal Conditions for Renewable Energy
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has the advantage of a distinct geography. It makes the country ideal for using renewable energy resources. Its climate is also a boon in ensuring the country can do this at a scale that’s attractive economics-wise.
Saudi’s government understands this well. It’s why the country is pushing to diversify its energy sources. There are plans to construct one of the largest green hydrogen facilities in the world. The structure will become powered by more than 4 gigawatts of wind and solar energy. The goal is to have it up and running by 2025.
Saudi is also set on developing massive wind farms at Al-Ghat, Wa'ad Al Shamal, and Yanbu.
Digital Technology Leads the Way
The Kingdom’s focus on digital technology is another reason why its green future is possible. A World Economic Forum report touched on this. It stated 40% of business leaders agree this technology is helping them. They were able to achieve their sustainability goals.
The report also listed how essential digital technology is. It's effective in measuring and tracking sustainability progress. It also helps with resource optimization and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Digital technology also allows for a more stable, circular economy.
Data and its corresponding potential are crucial here. Organizations can push for a data-driven business model. It can help companies shift from conventional cost management methods. This model also provides operational and environmental efficiencies. It also boosts the quality of service while lowering costs.