KAUST is spearheading geothermal energy research in Saudi Arabia to support the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals. In early 2024, KAUST and TAQA Geothermal partnered to drill a 400-meter test well on the KAUST campus for subsurface data collection. KAUST aims to serve as a testbed for geothermal technology development and deployment across the country. Why it matters: Geothermal energy offers a consistent, weather-independent renewable energy source that could significantly reduce emissions and boost economic efficiency in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST and TAQA Geothermal have partnered to explore Saudi Arabia's geothermal energy potential, starting with a 400-meter-deep well on KAUST's campus. The data collected will be used for planning and risk mitigation for deeper geothermal wells, and to test new technologies. Led by KAUST Research Professor Thomas Finkbeiner, the project aims to harness geothermal energy as a stable renewable source. Why it matters: This initiative could unlock a significant renewable energy source for Saudi Arabia, aligning with the Kingdom's R&D initiatives and promoting domestic partnerships between academia and industry.
KAUST and GE have partnered to study the feasibility of using crude oils like Arabian Super Light (ASL) to power heavy-duty gas turbines. The collaboration aims to develop turbines capable of burning crude oil directly from the ground to meet Saudi Arabia's energy security needs. The research involves building a rig at KAUST's High Pressure Combustion Laboratory (HPCL) to conduct corrosion tests on turbine materials by burning ASL/AXL crude continuously for 2,000 hours. Why it matters: This partnership could reduce reliance on natural gas and offer an economically viable alternative fuel source, bolstering energy security in Saudi Arabia and potentially influencing turbine technology worldwide.
KAUST and Aramco are partnering to develop extreme temperature-resilient batteries for subsurface applications and the hot climate of Saudi Arabia. The new batteries aim to operate effectively from subzero to 130°C, addressing the limitations of traditional lithium-based batteries that degrade above 60°C. KAUST is focusing on identifying electrolytes and separators that can endure high temperatures, while Aramco provides operational expertise. Why it matters: This collaboration could lead to significant cost savings in the energy sector, improve battery performance in EVs and grid systems, and position Saudi Arabia as a leader in advanced battery technology for extreme environments.
KAUST held the Imaging and Active Tectonics of the Red Sea Region workshop, gathering over 20 international and 30 local researchers. The workshop aimed to improve understanding of seismicity, volcanism, and Earth structure in Saudi Arabia and the Red Sea region. Participants came from countries surrounding the Red Sea, as well as the US, UK, France, Brazil, and South Korea. Why it matters: The event fosters international collaboration and data exchange to better monitor and model seismic and volcanic activity in a geologically active region.