Effat University Launches Solar Energy Project
Effat University, together with partners ECN.TNO, DSM, and Exasun of the Netherlands started a large-scale outdoor test of solar panels specifically designed for desert conditions. The project is sponsored by the local partner Altaaqa alternative solutions a Zahid Group Company, and the Dutch government organization 'The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO)'.
A total of 60 desert proof solar panels are monitored at the rooftop test site of EFFAT University. Special solar panel materials and design are being tested compatible with desert conditions: high ultraviolet radiation, abrasion by sand, and elevated temperatures.
The solar panels have several special features:
1. Panels have a special low soiling coating and are being compared to panels without this coating
2. Panels have a design to withstand heat during irradiation to avoid degradation and have a higher power output
3. Panels comprise a frameless glass front and rear side to optimize the lifespan
Effat University erected on-site a versatile test field comprising a grid-connected installation supported by meteo, panel measurement equipment and data collecting.
"Effat University is committed to supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 to ensure a sustainable non-oil dependent future for the Kingdom, said Dr. Haifa Reda Jamal Al-Lail, President of Effat University.
Dr. Malak Alnory, Effat University Provost said: "Effat University is an exciting place to be right now, working on sustainable energy research and development. Commissioning the PV test field and executing the panel monitoring is an attractive prospect for generations of students to come."
ECN part of TNO is delighted to co-operate with Effat University on this project, which highlights the enduring potential of solar energy as an affordable, decentralized source of electricity in Saudi Arabia.
Effat University is the first in the Kingdom to introduce a Masters in Energy Engineering degree. The program is designed to provide students with the skills they need to succeed in the professional fields of traditional and sustainable energy, two industries that are vital to the future of Saudi Arabia and fertile ground for the employment of educated energy professionals. The program offers two tracks: Petroleum Engineering and Renewable Energy.
About the collaborators
About Effat University:
Effat University is the first non-profit educational institute specialized in offering higher education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was established by the late Queen Effat AlThunayyan, wife of King Faisal, in 1999 (may God rest both their souls). The University operates under the umbrella of the King Faisal Foundation.
Effat University offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs that enhance lifelong learning and education through four Colleges: Effat College of Business, Effat College of Humanities, Effat College of Engineering and Effat College of Architecture and Design.
Effat University today is a centre of excellence where researchers from different fields collaborate in building and expanding the knowledge base to add future value to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
About ECN part of TNO:
TNO is the Dutch organisation for applied research and technology with a staff of approximately 3000 and active, among others, in healthy living, industrial innovation, traffic & transport, buildings & infrastructure, circular economy, energy technology, and safety & security.
The former ECN has become part of TNO since 1 April 2018. The new ECN part of TNO department is a symbiosis of all energy R&D activities of ECN and TNO, and is thereby the leading institute for energy research in the Netherlands with about 600 researchers. The research and development of ECN part of TNO contributes to transforming the current energy system into one without CO2 emissions.
ECN part of TNO includes these main innovation programmes: solar energy, wind energy, built environment, CO2-neutral industry, fuels and feedstock, system integration, and societally embedded energy transition.
About AlTaqaa
Altaaqa Alternative Solutions Company is Saudi Arabia's leading provider of total utility solutions, covering the Kingdom and executing custom-tailored and turnkey projects for water, energy and cooling across the nation. Altaaqa is the largest provider of temporary energy solutions in Saudi Arabia offer zero initial investment to our clients. Established in 2004, Altaaqa is a Zahid Group company.
Provided by Effat University