Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, announced that the country has achieved 32% of its target for automating distribution networks, with plans to raise this to 40% by the end of 2025.

Speaking at the opening of the 12th Saudi Arabia Smart Grid 2024 Conference in Riyadh, the minister outlined ongoing efforts to enhance the Kingdom’s energy infrastructure. Under the theme “Energy and Sustainability,” the conference highlights advancements in energy systems and sustainability goals.

Advanced Control Centers and Digital Transformation

The Ministry of Energy aims to establish nine state-of-the-art control centers by 2026. These centers will feature advanced technologies for real-time monitoring and management of electricity networks. As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, over 11 million smart meters have been installed since 2021, enabling real-time energy monitoring and promoting efficient electricity consumption through smart applications.

Prince Abdulaziz emphasized the critical role of smart grid technologies in transforming the energy sector. These technologies integrate smart meters, automated processes, and communication systems to enhance electricity production, transmission, distribution, and usage.

Renewable Energy and Storage Goals

The minister addressed the challenges of integrating renewable energy sources, which are influenced by weather conditions, underscoring the importance of advanced energy storage systems. The Kingdom plans to expand its storage capacity to 48 gigawatt hours by 2030, up from 26 gigawatt hours currently.

Enhancing Grid Stability and Efficiency

Saudi Arabia boasts the largest national grid in the Middle East and Africa. Efforts to expand transmission and distribution networks include the development of flexible systems to minimize energy losses and enhance energy exchange. The country has already established four regional control centers and a national control center, equipped with cutting-edge technologies to ensure grid security and efficiency.

Smart Grid Conference Highlights

The three-day Smart Grid Conference brings together experts to discuss key challenges in renewable energy integration, energy efficiency, and advanced energy storage technologies. Over 40 scientific papers will be presented, showcasing innovative solutions in smart grid systems and digital sustainability.

The event also featured the inauguration of an energy exhibition, the signing of agreements in the energy sector, and the recognition of participants in the “Energy Hackathon,” where more than 60 innovators proposed solutions in energy storage, efficiency, and sustainability.

Saudi Arabia continues to lead in modernizing energy systems, ensuring a sustainable future aligned with Vision 2030 goals.

Advancing Vision 2030 Through Digital Transformation

Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman emphasized during the Saudi Arabia Smart Grid 2024 Conference the critical role of comprehensive digital transformation in achieving the goals of Vision 2030. This initiative aims to modernize the energy sector, improve efficiency, and foster innovation in sustainable technologies.

Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships

The minister highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in accelerating the Kingdom’s energy goals. The conference served as a platform for exploring investment opportunities, with the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding between local and international companies. These partnerships aim to support advanced technology projects and renewable energy initiatives.

Innovation as a Pillar of Sustainability

In addition to showcasing ongoing projects, the conference underscored the role of innovation in achieving sustainability. The Energy Hackathon brought together over 60 innovators who presented creative solutions for energy storage, efficiency, and sustainability. This initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to empowering talent and driving progress in the energy sector.

Expanding on Private Sector Opportunities

The event also shed light on the growing opportunities for private sector involvement in energy projects. Discussions highlighted the role of advanced technologies in fostering future growth, especially in areas like energy storage, renewable energy integration, and the development of smart grid infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia’s continued focus on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration positions the Kingdom as a global leader in energy transformation.