Riyadh: Under the supervision of the Ministry of Energy, the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), in collaboration with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), has launched a groundbreaking research project to capture carbon and pollutants at the Rabigh Power Plant. The initiative is the first of its kind globally, utilizing innovative freezing techniques to manage emissions.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the project involves testing new carbon capture technology designed to significantly reduce emissions from fuel combustion, including carbon dioxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. This effort aligns with SEC’s sustainability goals and its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions. The technology features a mobile platform capable of capturing up to a quarter of a ton of carbon dioxide daily, offering a practical model for broader application in the power generation sector.

In a statement, SEC Acting CEO Eng. Khalid bin Salim AlGhamdi emphasized that the researc
h project supports Saudi Arabia’s carbon capture initiatives and highlights the company’s dedication to innovative technological partnerships. “These partnerships contribute to achieving the Kingdom’s environmental initiatives and fostering sustainability in the energy sector,” he stated. He also noted the importance of collaborating with KAUST in developing and implementing solutions that benefit Saudi Arabia’s environment and align with the global shift toward clean energy.

The project marks a significant milestone in demonstrating the effectiveness of the new carbon capture technology, achieving up to 99% purity of captured carbon. This aligns with the Saudi Green Initiative’s goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060 or earlier through circular carbon economy techniques, contingent upon the maturity and availability of necessary technologies.