KAUST Identifies Top 10 Sites for Solar and Wind Energy Storage in the Red Sea

Supporting Saudi Vision 2030 with Renewable Energy Solutions

Jeddah, February 4, 2025 – A groundbreaking study by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has identified the top 10 locations for solar and wind energy storage in the Red Sea region. This research plays a key role in accelerating Saudi Arabia’s transition to renewable energy, improving water resource management, and enhancing food security in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s Renewable Energy Potential

Saudi Arabia has vast potential for solar and wind energy, making renewable energy a vital part of its future. The study focused on how clean energy sources can support water management and contribute to the Kingdom’s goal of generating at least 50% of its electricity from renewables.

However, achieving this ambitious goal requires major changes in the energy sector, which accounted for nearly 50% of the country’s carbon emissions in 2022.

Challenges in Energy Storage

Professor Yoshihide Wada, the study leader, emphasized the importance of energy storage to ensure a stable and reliable power supply. He highlighted a key challenge: storing renewable energy for use during peak demand periods.

Electricity consumption in Saudi Arabia fluctuates significantly between summer and winter, creating the need for efficient energy storage solutions. During the cooler months, excess energy from solar and wind power can be stored and used when demand rises in hotter months.

Potential Solutions: Battery Storage and Pumped Hydro Storage

One of the solutions the Kingdom is investing in is battery storage, which is effective for daily energy cycles. However, for long-term energy storage, the study suggests seasonal pumped hydro storage.

This method involves storing desalinated water in high-altitude reservoirs. When needed, the stored water can be released to generate electricity and provide a sustainable water supply.

Cost and Site Feasibility

While pumped hydro storage offers a promising solution, the costs are high, with each site requiring an estimated investment of $10 billion. Therefore, careful site selection is essential to ensure feasibility.

To determine the best locations, KAUST scientists evaluated factors such as:

• Water evaporation rates
• Water salinity levels
• Proximity to solar and wind power plants

Driving Saudi Arabia’s Clean Energy Future

This research by KAUST highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. By identifying optimal sites for energy storage, the Kingdom moves closer to reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy security, and supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

This study marks a significant step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for Saudi Arabia and the world.