The Clean Energy 2024 conference, held on Wednesday in Riyadh, focused on the Saudi government's initiatives in the renewable energy sector, mainly hydrogen, which qualifies the country to lead the future of this market regionally and internationally as part of Vision 2030 goals.
The first edition of the conference, entitled "Sunrise Arabia," witnessed the participation of local and international activists, public institutions, and agencies working to develop renewable energies.
General Manager of Solarabic Engineer Moneef Barakat revealed the company's intention to move its regional headquarters to Riyadh before the end of 2024, given that the Kingdom has the largest and most significant projects in the field.
In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Barakat stressed the importance of having a regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, which has become a center for renewable energy decision-making.
He stated that the conference coincided with the renewable energy revolution in the Kingdom, pointing out that Saudi Arabia has promising goals within Vision 2030 by adding 54 gigawatts of clean energy to the national network, half of which will be solar energy.
Barakat noted that Saudi public agencies are committed to transitioning to renewable energy and always issue new solar energy projects tenders.
The Ministry of Energy has so far issued about 12.6 gigawatts of projects referred to various companies to install solar energy in the Kingdom.
The expert described the recent development in Saudi Arabia as "unprecedented" in the world, pointing out that the Kingdom has clear visions that include rapid implementation of theoretical decisions and plans that interest all companies.
Meanwhile, Head of Amerenco Business Development – MENA Waleed al-Hallaj told Asharq Al-Awsat that green hydrogen will change the form of energy, characterized by being a thermal energy source through renewable energy.
Hallaj stated that Arab countries, especially Saudi Arabia, can lead green hydrogen, referring to NEOM, the largest green project in the world.
He pointed out that Saudi Arabia seeks to consolidate its leadership position in green hydrogen, just as it is a pioneer in oil.
The conference aims to connect international and local private companies with decision-makers to facilitate the next stage of solar energy projects, said Hallaj.
The event also aims to identify trends towards a sustainable and clean energy future in the Kingdom by promoting dialogue and innovation.
The conference included four sessions focusing on the world's lowest electricity cost, the equivalent price of electricity in Saudi Arabia, prospects for power purchase agreements and unsubsidized projects, purchasing and supplying solar panels and inverters, logistical services, and operation and maintenance.
