Saudi shift toward sustainable energy 
Recently, the controversy around the primary energy source (fossil fuels) has grown due to its impact. There are many possibilities around how it might affect the future of the next generations. It all depends on how much we consume the resources we have today.
We have seen many initiatives set by different countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to meet global climate targets since it is a worldwide matter.
The demand for energy is growing significantly, and Saudi Arabia is considered one of the largest oil producers globally. That is why the Kingdom has become more conscious of the oil supply chain. At the same time, the government is taking the necessary steps to become more diverse in energy sources.
However, the environmental challenges led the world to make more notable transitions, turning to sustainable, renewable energy sources, while continuing to fulfill the markets’ demands.
Since sustainable energy is the most efficient source, Saudi Arabia aims to have 50 percent renewable energy by 2030. This will advance our goal of reaching net zero by 2060, helping us achieve the diversity we seek.
Saudi Arabia has established its journey to progress with unique programs and initiatives, including green hydrogen, carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) technologies, the Saudi Green Initiative, the Middle East Green Initiative, and the Saudi Energy Efficiency Program.
One of the most anticipated programs is one that will allow us to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. CCUS technologies have been making the headlines recently since they will be an asset enabling us to increase progress toward reaching Saudi Arabia’s net-zero goal.
That is only one way we could reach our target. High oil prices look like a negative thing for consumers, but this could be positive in the long run. As oil prices rise, we need a better and, more specifically, cheaper alternatives. With the costs increasing, we can transition quicker as we move to alternative energy resources.
Since sustainable energy is the most efficient source, Saudi Arabia aims to have 50 percent renewable energy by 2030. This will advance our goal of reaching net zero by 2060, helping us achieve the diversity we seek.
Many changes are happening, and there will be more in the future. Therefore, we will have to be ready and be prepared for them.
The efforts put into making the transition to “green” possible are extraordinary, and they will enable us to continue reaching new heights. But that’s not the only exciting thing to look forward to.
Recently, the rise of green hydrogen has led to new possibilities. Although it is not new, it has become more in the spotlight as the Kingdom uses it in projects such as Oxagon, a promising initiative that will lead us to Industry 4.0. Its most appealing attribute? Being powered by 100 percent clean energy.
As Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said: “Oxagon will be the catalyst for economic growth and diversity in NEOM and the Kingdom, further meeting our ambitions under Vision 2030. Oxagon will contribute to redefining the world’s approach to industrial development in the future, protecting the environment while creating jobs and growth for NEOM.”
Undoubtedly, the future we dream of today, and are planning, will be achieved with these efforts.
Many countries and the Kingdom have begun to adopt an energy-efficient approach to preserve natural resources and, on a global level, avoid environmental concerns.
The Saudi Energy Efficiency Program, for example, aims to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable living in the Kingdom. The program focuses on becoming more energy efficient in buildings, transportation, and industry. The ultimate goal is to reduce the country’s carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.
The shift to “green” has been the latest trend globally using advanced technologies, and that is why many programs and projects have been included to help the Kingdom achieve its sustainable goals. Perhaps with more work put into these projects and more progress made, it will become clear that the strategies and goals set are the right ones, and practical implementation will continue to improve. Saudi Arabia’s ambitions power them, but their dedication determines their strength.
Regardless of what the future has in store for us, the wisest thing we can do is work more thoughtfully with what we have and always strive for the best for the sake of the planet and future generations.
• Ritaj Hussain Al-Hazmi is a young columnist and author, and Guinness world record holder. She believes in showcasing the new generation’s potential.
