The World Bank has commended Saudi Arabia in its recent report, Gulf Economic Update: Navigating the Water Challenge in the GCC – Paths to Sustainable Solutions, for its remarkable progress in enhancing the water sector, particularly in desalination. The report confirms that the Kingdom has emerged as a leading model in improving efficiency and decreasing energy consumption, SPA reported.
Key highlights of the report
Among the key highlights, the report showcased the Shuaiba-5 desalination plant—the most advanced of its kind in the Kingdom—which has achieved a production capacity of 664,490 cubic meters per day. This plant has established a new benchmark for energy efficiency, recording the lowest energy consumption rate ever at just 2.34 kilowatt-hours per cubic meter, compared to the typical 4 to 5 kWh/m³ observed in conventional facilities.
Read more: UN acknowledges Saudi Arabia as global model for water resources management
Innovations driving operational efficiency
Integration of renewable energy sources
Additionally, the integration of renewable energy sources—particularly solar power—has further diminished reliance on conventional electricity. This transformation not only aids in lowering operational costs but also signifies a strategic advancement toward fulfilling environmental sustainability targets.
Ambitious energy reduction goals
In line with this vision, the Saudi Water Authority is executing an ambitious plan to reduce energy intensity in the water sector by 30 percent by 2030, relative to 2019 levels. This objective will be accomplished through the adoption of advanced technologies and the enforcement of sustainable policies.
The success of the Shuaiba-5 plant stands as a global model for regions confronting water scarcity and reaffirms the Kingdom’s leadership in developing innovative solutions to tackle global water challenges.
