Researchers from Knight Frank, the University of Leeds and University of Bristol used geospatial modelling to provide the first comprehensive inventory of rooftop solar potential in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi.
The findings suggest it’s possible to shift focus from big solar farms in the desert to distributed urban installations.
Abu Dhabi’s rooftop solar potential is 42.8 sq km.
The report says using the rooftop space could help Gulf region countries achieve their carbon neutrality targets and present a commercial opportunity for landlords and investors.
‘Not theoretical’
“This is not theoretical; the economics are compelling today,” said Wesley Thomson, a Knight Frank partner and head of ESG in the MENA region.
“Using data from the Kingdom’s Shamsi Solar Calculator, we estimate that rooftop photovoltaic systems in Riyadh now offer a payback period of just 7-11 years.
“Industrial and logistics assets are particularly well suited for this transition, with larger commercial installations achieving payback in as little as seven years due to economies of scale.”
Saudi Arabia has set a target of achieving a 50% renewable energy mix by 2030 and net zero carbon emissions by 2060.
In the last five years it has developed several utility-scale projects – such as Sakaka (300MW), Sudair (1,500MW) and Al Shuaibah (2,600MW) – that Knight Frank says have established benchmarks for cost-competitive solar power that are among the lowest in the world.
Researchers assessed around 870,000 buildings in Riyadh. Half were too small, but large buildings with more than 1,000 sq m of usable space account for 26% of the city’s total roof area.
Subscribe here to get stories about construction around the world in your inbox three times a weekRooftop solar could give Riyadh 40% of its electricity, study finds Global Construction Review.
Hence then, the article about rooftop solar could give riyadh 40 of its electricity study finds was published today ( ) and is available on GCR ( Middle East ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Rooftop solar could give Riyadh 40% of its electricity, study finds )
Also on site :
- My Daughter’s Friend Has a Crush on My Husband. It’s Making Us Both Deeply Uncomfortable.
- Maga’s biggest fear is coming true and Trump won’t survive it
- Manchester United vs Newcastle Prediction: Heavyweights Meet in Premier League’s Only Boxing Day Clash