In the heart of Saudi Arabia, a groundbreaking study led by Mohannad Alhazmi, from the Electrical Engineering Department at King Saud University, is challenging the status quo of energy consumption and environmental impact. The research, published in ‘Energies’, delves into the potential of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in public buildings, specifically mosques and schools, offering a compelling narrative of economic viability and environmental benefits.
Saudi Arabia, a country heavily reliant on fossil fuels for electricity generation, is facing significant environmental challenges. The study highlights that integrating solar PV systems in public buildings could lead to a staggering reduction of 1.02 million tons of CO2 emissions annually. This is not just an environmental win; it’s a financial one too. The net present cost could decrease by 48%, a figure that should make energy sector professionals sit up and take notice.
“Solar PV systems are not just about reducing emissions; they are about creating a more sustainable and cost-effective energy future,” says Alhazmi. “The integration of solar PV systems in public buildings can significantly reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, which is a win-win for both the environment and the economy.”
The study, which utilized machine learning-based forecasting to analyze power consumption and solar generation patterns, provides a roadmap for policymakers and energy professionals. It suggests that the central region of Saudi Arabia, with its abundant solar radiation and large rooftop spaces, is an ideal candidate for such initiatives. The region’s 24,931 mosques and 4099 public schools, which consume 5.32 million barrels of oil equivalent, could be transformed into clean energy hubs.
The findings are particularly relevant for the energy sector, which has long grappled with the challenges of high PV penetration. The study addresses these concerns by highlighting the complementary load patterns of mosques and schools, which can mitigate grid instability. “The impact on the electrical grid can be reduced because the loads of mosques and schools complement each other most of the time,” Alhazmi explains. “This makes the integration of solar PV systems not only environmentally beneficial but also technically feasible.”
The study also explores the financial benefits of solar PV integration, demonstrating that the net present cost decreases substantially with increased PV penetration. This economic viability, coupled with environmental gains, positions solar PV systems as a key player in the future of energy in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
As the world continues to grapple with climate change, studies like this one offer a glimmer of hope. They show that it is possible to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while also creating a more sustainable and cost-effective energy future. The integration of solar PV systems, as demonstrated in this study, offers a path toward reducing emissions and optimizing energy consumption. This research could shape future developments in the field, encouraging more countries to invest in renewable energy sources and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future.
