The Saudi government has unveiled eight new initiatives to boost energy efficiency, targeting sustainable economic growth and lower carbon emissions.

The new initiatives were announced at the Saudi ESCO 2024 forum, which began Monday in Riyadh. Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman attended the event.

Energy efficiency means using less electricity to achieve the same results through measures that reduce consumption and improve usage without affecting performance.

Saudi Arabia aims to cut domestic energy consumption by 2030 through ongoing efforts and initiatives.

The new initiatives include an updated licensing regulation for energy efficiency service providers, a revised “National Measurement and Verification User Guide,” and the launch of an independent energy auditors platform, an energy efficiency projects opportunities platform, and an energy efficiency academy online platform.

The National Energy Services Company (Tarshid), owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), plans to launch 50 solar photovoltaic projects across Saudi Arabia this year, following 10 projects last year.

Tarshid also aims to start around 84 building retrofit projects this year, targeting energy savings of about 2.1 terawatt-hours nationwide.

At a press conference, Saudi Energy Efficiency Center (SEEC) Director General Nasser Al-Ghamdi told Asharq Al-Awsat that the center has ensured reliability in the sector by licensing energy service companies and maintaining service quality.

Energy efficiency teams have been set up in 280 government entities to focus on awareness, technical training, and tools to help reduce consumption, according to Al-Ghamdi.

He also affirmed that Saudi ESCO 2024 brought together service providers, experts, and beneficiaries to showcase solutions, drive investment, and highlight the importance of energy efficiency skills.

Al-Ghamdi stated that the forum and its exhibition reflect the SEEC’s commitment to a range of initiatives and services aimed at enhancing energy efficiency. This effort is crucial for reducing emissions and supporting national climate change goals.