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New Energy World magazine logo
New Energy World magazine logo
ISSN 2753-7757 (Online)

Exploring the challenges of net zero: energy security, LNG markets and Saudi Arabia’s decarbonisation plans

27/11/2024

8 min read

Feature

Row upon row of solar panels in desert, running left to right across image, with setting sun behind Photo: ACWA Power
 
The 300 MW Sakaka solar PV plant began commercial operation in 2020 in the Saudi Arabian province of Al Jouf. The more recent Sudair plant is five times as large.

Photo: ACWA Power
 

Despite numerous governments making plans to move to net zero, and climate activists agitating for faster decarbonisation, consumer behaviours are yet to change. In part this is due to obstacles and roadblocks that were not foreseen when the plans were originally implemented but are now being encountered. These include the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the challenges of delivering a multilateral approach. The WPC Energy UK National Committee Expert Workshop 2024 hosted by Deloitte at its London office on 31 October considered these factors and other challenges. Nnamdi Anyadike reports.

Opening the session, David Holtam, Deloitte/WPC Energy UK National Committee, said: ‘Since the beginning of the Russian war in Ukraine, energy security has become a higher priority for governments. Uncertain project economics have also beset offshore wind projects, particularly in the US, while the adoption of electric vehicles and heat pumps has been slower than anticipated.’

 

The inauguration of newly elected President Donald Trump in January 2025 and the likely implications for the Paris Accord and the oil and gas industry could also provide additional complications for global adherence to the net zero roadmap.

 

In the meantime, gas in Europe is likely to continue to play a key role as a gateway fuel to renewables. This is due to a new mood of optimism as the worst concerns of 2022 about the loss to Europe of Russian pipeline gas turned out to have been overplayed.

 

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