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 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 researchers collaborated on a study in Iceland that found a correlation between changes in groundwater composition and earthquakes greater than magnitude 5. The study, published in Nature Geoscience, observed variations in dissolved element concentrations and stable isotopes prior to seismic events in 2012 and 2013. Earthquake prediction remains a challenge with differing views among scientists about its feasibility. Why it matters: Understanding earthquake precursors could lead to improved risk mitigation strategies for urban infrastructure in seismically active regions across the Middle East.
Researchers from the Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) will present research papers at the 17th Workshop of the International Lithosphere Program Task Force on Sedimentary Basins in Abu Dhabi. Dr. Meixia Geng's study identifies potential geothermal exploration sites in the UAE based on Curie isotherm depths. Dr. Felix Vega's research demonstrates drone-borne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for subsurface mapping of underground cavities. Why it matters: These studies showcase the UAE's commitment to sustainable development through geothermal energy exploration and advanced subsurface imaging techniques.
Wail Bamhair (M.S. '10, electrical engineering) is the CEO of TAQNIA Energy, the energy arm of Saudi Investment and Development. He joined TAQNIA as its first employee after the CEO, eventually leading the development of Saudi Arabia's first independent solar power station, Layla Power Station (50 MW). Prior to TAQNIA, he worked at King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (K●A●CARE). Why it matters: This highlights the role of KAUST graduates in driving Saudi Arabia's renewable energy sector and contributing to Vision 2030's sustainability goals.
The UAE's Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) and the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) have partnered to create 3D maps of the UAE's mineral and renewable resources. TII's Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) will support MoEI in this effort, contributing its expertise to identify resources like geothermal energy and analyze geological data. The collaboration aims to support the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy by enabling the exploration and utilization of undiscovered renewable and mineral resources. Why it matters: This initiative leverages local expertise to map domestic resources, aligning technological advancement with sustainability goals for the UAE.
KAUST's New Energy Oasis (NEO) hosted an open day on May 7 to showcase its renewable energy technologies. The event featured guided tours of the NEO site, where 11 international technology providers are testing renewable energy solutions. The technologies on display included photovoltaic (PV), concentrating solar power (CSP), and dust mitigation technologies. Why it matters: This initiative helps identify and implement the most appropriate renewable energy technologies for Saudi Arabia, addressing the Kingdom's growing energy demands.
KAUST researchers are studying ancient supervolcanoes, like the Toba eruption 75,000 years ago, to understand current and future climate conditions. Volcanic eruptions serve as natural experiments that push the climate system to its limits, helping scientists understand climate's physical mechanisms. Research shows that volcanic eruptions delayed global warming by about 30% starting from 1850. Why it matters: Understanding the impact of volcanic activity on climate change can improve predictions of future global warming, particularly in regions like the Middle East which are strongly affected by volcanic events.