Solar Power Project Plan 2030, Greatest Energy Source Worldwide by 2050

A 2012 file picture shows a Saudi man walking past solar panels at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Al-Oyeynah Research Station. (Reuters)
A 2012 file picture shows a Saudi man walking past solar panels at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Al-Oyeynah Research Station. (Reuters)
TT

Solar Power Project Plan 2030, Greatest Energy Source Worldwide by 2050

A 2012 file picture shows a Saudi man walking past solar panels at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Al-Oyeynah Research Station. (Reuters)
A 2012 file picture shows a Saudi man walking past solar panels at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Al-Oyeynah Research Station. (Reuters)

The launching of Solar Power Project Plan 2030 grabbed the attention of a number of energy experts in the world, especially after the kingdom’s announcement that it intends to produce 200 gigawatt of solar energy by 2030.

The purposes of this project goes in tandem with the forecasts of the International Renewable Energy Agency that solar energy will be the greatest energy source worldwide by 2050.

This Solar Power Project Plan 2030 is considered one of the ambitious steps of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman towards the implementation of the Saudi Vision 2030, which affirmed that it would put a legal and organizational framework that allows the private sector to invest and possess in renewable energy sector, as well as urge partnerships between the private and public sector.

This global project would contribute to increasing electricity generated from solar energy, opening new economic and investment channels in the kingdom in addition to providing job opportunities, training and investment in individuals and firms.

Dr. Turki bin Saud bin Mohammed, Vice President of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) for Research Institutes, commended the efforts of the crown prince in signing a memorandum of understanding to establish the Solar Power Project Plan 2030 as a first step to produce around 200 gigawatt in 2030.

The country’s need of energy is now equal to 75 gigawatt, and the project will enable the kingdom to export the surplus, he added, saying that the kingdom enjoys huge spaces that can be invested to construct enormous power plants.



Brazil President Signs Law Authorizing Offshore Wind Development

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva attends an event marking two years since the alleged coup attempt when supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro invaded government buildings and called for a military intervention, in Brasilia, Brazil, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. (AP)
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva attends an event marking two years since the alleged coup attempt when supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro invaded government buildings and called for a military intervention, in Brasilia, Brazil, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. (AP)
TT

Brazil President Signs Law Authorizing Offshore Wind Development

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva attends an event marking two years since the alleged coup attempt when supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro invaded government buildings and called for a military intervention, in Brasilia, Brazil, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. (AP)
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva attends an event marking two years since the alleged coup attempt when supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro invaded government buildings and called for a military intervention, in Brasilia, Brazil, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. (AP)

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has signed into law a bill authorizing the development of offshore wind farms, a statement said late on Friday, a bid to strengthen the country's energy security and spark a wave of investment.

The new law foresees incentives for the development of offshore energy projects in Brazilian territorial waters, the statement said.

Offshore wind speeds tend to be faster and steadier than on land, a potential advantage compared with wind farms built on a continent. But offshore wind farms can be expensive, difficult to build and potentially affect marine animals and birds, according to the American Geosciences Institute.

The Brazilian government said the law provides guidelines for projects and restoration of explored areas, in addition to requiring prior consultations with affected communities to ensure "respect for traditional maritime practices and local culture."

More than 80% of Brazil's electricity comes from renewable sources, mainly hydroelectric, according to government data.

The president vetoed provisions in the law, introduced during the congressional debate, which would maintain incentives for "more polluting, expensive and inefficient energy sources such as thermoelectric, coal and gas plants," the statement said.