Integration of Renewable Energy in the Saudi Arabian Transmission Lines - Case Study Example

Research Proposal on Integration of Renewable Energy in the Saudi Arabian Transmission Lines Student’s Name Professor’s Name Course Name/Code Date Table of Contents List of Tables 3 Abstract 3 Chapter 1: Introduction 4 Background of the Study 4 Problem Statement 6 Research Objectives 7 Research Questions 7 Research Scope and Outline 8 Chapter 2: Literature Review 8 Introduction 8 Different Energy Sources to be integrated into the Grid in Saudi Arabia 9 Challenges and Benefits of Integrating Renewable Energy Systems 12 Chapter 3: Research Methodology 15 Introduction 15 Research Techniques and Design 16 Population Sample 16 Targeted Study Population 17 Importance of Sampling 17 Collection of Data 17 Data Analysis 18 Conclusion 19 References 19 List of Tables Table 1: KSA Electricity Trend over the Years 6 Table 2: Trend for Carbon Dioxide Emission 6 Abstract The subject of integration of renewable energy in transmission lines within Saudi Arabia requires a number of considerations and effort in order to increase the share of renewable energy in the current electrical energy supply systems. It requires understanding the resource availability and characteristics of the renewable energy, the investments on the additional infrastructure, innovative thinking, capacity expansion and adjustment of the government energy regulation frameworks. Therefore, this research proposal explores the concept of integrating renewable energy in the transmission lines within Saudi Arabia by exploring the fundamental research background and questions surrounding the topic, digging into different literature sources on renewable energy integration within Saudi Arabia and outlining the appropriate research methodology into the research. Chapter 1: Introduction Background of the Study The emission of carbon dioxide impacts negatively on the environment of Saudi Arabia and the world at large, and if left unattended, such emissions would result in environmental degradation in the future. If the current trend in the use of conventional fossil fuels for generation of power continues, the level of carbon emissions will also increase in proportion to power generation. Saudi Arabia’s position in the production of the world’s oil is greatly threatened by overconsumption of fuel on domestic factors such as machine powering and powering of vehicles. Despite the country being one of the largest producers of oil in the world, the adverse effects of extensive use of oil in running of industrial machinery are beginning to show. This calls for the integration of alternative renewable energy sources which should be able to reduce pollution [1]. Further, it is important to note that industrialization and rapid population increase have contributed to a substantial increase in the demand for electricity. That means that Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) should come up with new power generation plants. The main incentive for SEC that makes them opt for the supply of fossil based fuels is the low cost of fuel. However, the bad side of the story is that fossil fuels are leading contributors in the supply of greenhouse gases. Therefore, in order to reduce global warming and save the environment, carbon emission should be reduced with the major step being to integrate renewable energy into the transmission lines. For example, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has a lot of land that receives sun throughout the year. This opens room for the great opportunity of investing in solar energy. On average, KSA’‘s total solar insulation received is about 5,500W/m2 [2]. This implies that to harness solar power is a good option for the supply of clean energy and will cause little or no harm to the environment. Problem Statement When it comes to production of greenhouse gases, KSA is ranked 14th worldwide [2]. What is more, statistics shown in Table 1 indicates the past trend in the amount of electricity consumed annually, and which has been on an increase. Such an exponential growth can be used to extrapolate into the future where power consumption is higher and generation is predicted to reach 680 Billion kWH by 2030. Table 1: KSA Electricity Trend over the Years In 2010, the emission of carbon dioxide was about 238 million (in terms of metric tons) due to the effect of burning more fossil fuels for generation of electricity. This implies that if the trend continues, it may create a catastrophic impact on the environment. The trend for carbon emission is highlighted in the Table below. Table 2: Trend for Carbon Dioxide Emission It is from such a background there necessitates the need to investigate, in detail, the subject of integration of renewable energy in Saudi Arabia. Research Objectives This research proposal will examine the following specific and broad objectives in light of the subject under research: Specific Objectives To examine the renewable energy resource availability, variability and characteristics in the Electrical Power Supply System within Saudi Arabia To investigate the challenges and benefits of integrating renewable energy systems into the transmission lines in Saudi Arabia To explore the difference energy sources to be integrated into the Grid in Saudi Arabia General Objectives To study the literature content that makes inferences to the specific research objectives To outline the suitable methodological design for the research Research Questions Specific Questions The proposal offers the following specific research questions into the problem. These questions include: What are the benefits of integrating renewable energy into the grid in Saudi Arabia? What are the different renewable energy sources being integrating into the transmission lines in Saudi Arabia? What impact does integration of renewable energy systems into the grid have on the current transmission system? General Questions What literature is available with regard to the subject of integration of renewable energy sources into the grid in Saudi Arabia? What are the appropriate research methodologies that can be applied in the research? Research Scope and Outline This proposal has been divided into the following chapters. Introduction, Literature Review, Methodology and Conclusion. The Introduction defines the background to the problem, outlines the problem statement alongside research questions and objectives. The Literature Review explores the literature of past researchers on content related to this topic whereas the research methodology proposes the research methodology applicable in this research. Chapter 2: Literature Review Introduction This section of the proposal examines different literature on alternative energy sources which can be integrated into the energy supply grid in Saudi Arabia. As the literature suggests, the energy sources reviewed here are only the non-pollutant renewable energy sources which, if integrated, will lead to a gradual decrease in carbon dioxide pollution and promote environmental friendliness. Different Energy Sources to be integrated into the Grid in Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia is not only blessed with oil, but also has a wide range of renewable energy sources. These potential sources of renewable energy include: Wind Energy Wind energy refers to where wind mills and turbines run by wind are used to harvest wind energy. Application of wind energy harvesting requires a wide open area where the wind turbines and energy plants can be located. Saudi Arabia, being a dry country, has a lot of wide open areas with unlimited flow of high speed wind. This means that, if integrated, wind energy can be economical and effectively sustain a big percentage of the energy requirements of the country. Wind energy is renewable and environmental friendly, which are some of the factors the Saudi Arabia has focus on and this shows the probability of high investments on this sector by the government. Despite the huge oil sources in Saudi Arabia, it has shown interest in investing in development of current technologies to exploit and put into use renewable energy sources. Electricity generated from wind will substitute domestic and industrial oil use, whereby the oil saved will generate more income on export and environmental pollution related to oil usage [1]. Recently a lot of research has been done on the viability of the integration of wind energy. Wind energy can cater for most of Saudi Arabia’s energy requirements. However, apart from the lots of capital investment required to start up wind power generating plants, a lot of processes and steps are involved. First, there should be a guarantee on balance between energy requirements and energy supply [3]. Research shows that more needs to be done on wind energy and develop sites which have the best flow of wind to enable maximum production of energy. A number of steps are involved in implementation of a wind energy generation firm and include collection of data related to wind speed and wind directions from numerous sites to enable selection of the best site. Secondly, research points to the need to determine the amount of energy targeted for production so as to set up the power turbines with focus on the targeted production. A proposal of a computer program which will take into count all the power calculations with regard to production and consumption has been done. This program is supposed to optimize and give directives on accurate designs of wind power generation systems that will be able to effectively meet the set targets of energy production. The function of this program proposal is making decisions related to identification of best sites from the many potential and available sites, to determine the most suitable wind turbine required for every site and calculation of the cost of production of every Kwh. The above mentioned decisions need very accurate calculations to give the exact figures of power use and production. The various steps involved in these processes are very lengthy and require a lot of time and numerous efforts in optimization of processes and calculations. The new computer program proposal gives a solution to this problem by giving results on calculations and optimizations in a very short time. The computer program proposal can be implemented anywhere in the world due to its flexibility to change its calculations to fit any country using it and its ability to support large numbers of wind turbine sites. The program will enable easy research, result analysis and general implementation of the wind turbine program in Saudi Arabia [4]. Solar Energy Solar energy, which involves production of electrical energy from the sun’s rays by use of solar systems or special glasses, is one of the renewable sources of energy in consideration for integration in Saudi Arabia. Solar energy generation is quite compatible with the hot and sunny climate characterizing the country. Apart from wind energy, solar energy is another easily achievable alternative power generation system which can be implemented at low costs and will require minimal maintenance expense [4]. The best way solar energy generation can be achieved in Saudi Arabia is by use of solar panels. This involves laying out solar panels on a fairly leveled ground to avoid shadowing and blocking. This will be able to put into use the vast unutilized government land into a good course. The sky rocketing prices of oil and its anticipated future deficiency has necessitated the move by the government to harvest solar energy. It is evident that Saudi Arabia has great potential of solar energy production, which can be used to meet the constantly increasing power demand and also can be exported to other countries which have insufficient power supply or which have got little or no potential at all for solar power generation. Solar electricity is an important form of energy and its rate of use is constantly growing globally. Electricity generated from solar has indicated more potential in KSA whereby most of the land that would otherwise remain idle can be used for harnessing power by use of solar panels. What is more, the development and use of energy generated from renewable sources (primary sources) such as solar energy generation have been taken into consideration as some of the significant factors to be involved in energy transition. Hydro electric power Hydro electric power involves the production of energy from moving mass of water. The water movement is used to move turbines which in turn produce electricity .This is mainly applicable in rivers which have constantly flowing water but can also be achievable on stagnant water like lakes and dams. Water can be contained in reservoirs and released in small amounts which tend to have a high pressure owing to the large amounts of water stored in the reservoir. Such a system can be able to run and produce electricity for as long as the water flows. Challenges and Benefits of Integrating Renewable Energy Systems Integration of renewable energy sources leads to generation of more energy that is free from carbon emissions. It generally leads to Diversification of energy supply and reduction of reliance on imported form of fuel and energy. It creates instant development in the economy and creates numerous jobs in the energy manufacturing process and installation of relevant hardware. Worth noting is that installation of renewable power generation systems which are mainly possible in the rural areas does not affect the activities carried out in the areas of installation. For example installation of wind turbines involves erecting of long poles to hold the turbines in place. This does not affect the activities below them. Farming and other farm related activities can still be carried out. Same applies to solar energy whereby the solar panels are installed on roof tops or on high posts which can still allow activities below them [4]. Most of the renewable energy sources do not need a too big capital investment and thus, are much achievable even within a small budget [5]. They are advantageous in the long run as once installed energy production will be continuous and only little maintenance expenses will be incurred. Generation of income for the nation is also another advantage of integration of renewable energy sources [6]. This will be possible, if the production rates of power are lowered as expected, whereby Saudi Arabia will be able to export electricity to various countries and earn income out of that. That will be an economic advantage to the nation, gained from integration of renewable energy sources [7]. However, all forms of renewable energy sources come at a cost. They all depend on natural factors which no one has control of. This is the main challenge which faces renewable energy sources. For example wind direction, wind speed, and wind strength are the main factors which determine the rate of wind energy production. However, these factors cannot be controlled in any way to increase or to decrease production of electrical energy. The plants for harvesting wind energy can only be developed in areas where there is constant wind flow. This limits development of such plants to certain areas in the country [8]. The wind turbines, also known to affect the directions of wind, and can deter movement of flying animals and birds. Similarly solar power is also dependent on sunlight which means that energy production using solar panels fluctuates from minimum to maximum through the day which is not a good production pattern for a reliable source of power. Currently, availability of renewable fuel obtained from natural sources such as wind, sun and plants, which can be put into use as a substitute for electrical energy, is practically in limitation. It is, therefore, evident that renewable energy sources cannot be able to sufficiently supply energy required in Saudi Arabia but can only be used to supplement the fossil fuel energy and reduce the use of fuel to some extent but not completely [9]. The current capital cost required as investment for renewable power production equipment is very high [10]. For example, for production of solar energy, extensive use of power panels is required which can be expensive compared to other energy sources. The plant for generating energy from sun light, wind and solar energy have to be spread around large areas [4]. Chapter 3: Research Methodology Introduction This section of the proposal dissection the methodology that will be used in the research based on both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The use of the two research methods enables the researcher to understand the phenomenon in detail. Discussed under this chapter are the research paradigms and approaches, the research design and techniques, the kind use of population sampling design, the outline on target population for data collection and the design used in sampling, data collection methods and data analysis. The role of this section in the research proposal is to devise a methodology for examining a phenomenon within the domain of the research questions. Although the literature explores different secondary sources of information such as the use of eBooks, journal articles, and books, the methodology will deep given information on the designs strategies for data collection. Such techniques include the use of case studies, observations, and analysis, use of questionnaires and structured interviews. Research approaches In the research for determination of integration of renewable energies in the transmission lines in Saudi Arabia, the information collected from the primary sources shall be compared with the one from the secondary sources. Such an approach brings about a design that is all-inclusive. The primary methods to be used shall make use interviews, observation and questionnaire. The main advantage of this is getting first hand information which may otherwise not be distorted in any way. In the use of cases studies, secondary sources will be more useful. Comparison and blending of methodologies is what constitutes a robust research. Research Techniques and Design Under the methodology, the use of different research techniques and designs shall be employed for the purpose of leaving nothing unattended to in the primary and secondary sources considered. The case study methodology in known for its simplicity in implementation and the fact that it acknowledges the existence of past research on the same topic. The method is flexible and the steps it entails include establishing of the significant cases, looking at the methods used in data collection, preparation and analysis and the kind of reports presented with regard to those cases. Such investigation should be in-line with the research objectives. The research should allow choosing of broader cases that have been carried out. This ensures that topics of interested are captured and that sufficient information is offered. Another thing to consider while choosing a case is time. For broader cases, more time should be allocated. Population Sample Like in any research, the role of sampling is representativeness. In order to obtain a sample, there has to be focus population with the suspect information for which the research is intended. In this particular case, randomized sampling can be combined with stratified sampling and even cluster sampling. The role of representativeness is to allow drawing of inferences that can stand for the whole population that is affected and come up with conclusions so that necessary recommendations can be made. For example, different areas within Saudi Arabian have different infrastructure in terms of electricity distribution. Further, there is as aspect of variability in the distribution of renewable energy resources. This implies that the entire population is diversified and cannot be studied wholesomely without sampling. Areas with similar trends and distributions can be studies differently from others. In sampling, ethics standards have to be taken care of since the whole population is full of individuals from different backgrounds and who are affected by different cultures and policies. While undertaking research, the population chosen has to be treated in the most desirable manner that does not infringe the research principles. Targeted Study Population The issue of renewable energy is of global concern. However, the target areas would be government institutions concerned with energy regulations, the stakeholders in the energy sector, and allocation of resources in terms of the affected regions. In this case, KSA’s SEC body shall be evaluated in terms of its readiness to take care of renewable energy integration. Importance of Sampling The use of sampling techniques helps in filtering information. It makes work easier. For instance, as opposed to examination of all the affected individuals and institutions, the sample will focus on main areas where the renewable energy systems have been integrated accordingly and extrapolate into the other areas in terms of different priorities. Collection of Data This research aims at using different primary methods of data collection. Interviews with stakeholders and key personnel in the energy sector within Saudi Arabian region will help understand the role of renewable energy and how vast its systems have been integrated. Further, the questionnaires can be used alongside the interviews whereas secondary sources can offer already analyzed at data as done by other researchers. Data Analysis Data becomes useful only when it has been analyzed. The analysis process should be done systematically by use of various statistic packages such as SPSS and Excel. The concept of energy usage can be monitored by use of research trends drawing in Excel. Through statistics, data analysis is made feasible and allows for logical organization of data for illustrations and evaluations. Conclusion Renewable sources of energy as discussed above are the best option of alternative energy which has less pollution and is more environmental friendly. Integration of the same in Saudi Arabia will see a gradual reduction in air pollution. The literature section reveals different renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and hydro electricity. Despite the numerous processes involved and the massive capital investment required, renewable energy sources, mainly wind and solar energy, are highly compatible with the climatic conditions of Saudi Arabia and will lead to decreased oil use which will increase oil exports and income as well. Further, the methodology section offers a comprehensive way through which the research questions can be answered accordingly. References [1]. Glada Lahn, & Paul Stevens. “Top of Form Burning Oil to Keep Cool: the Hidden Energy Crisis in Saudi Arabia.” n.d.. http://edoc.bibliothek.uni-halle.de/receive/HALCoRe_document_00012923. [2]. Gumgumji, A.K, and O.A Mohammed. "Increasing Renewable Penetration in the Saudi Arabia Electricity System." Conference Proceedings - Ieee Southeastcon. (2013). Print. [3]. Al-Ammar, E, and B Al-Yousef. "Feasibility Study of Establishing a Wind Farm to Generate Electricity in Saudi Arabia." (2010): 1-5. Print. [4]. Miro Zeman. “Integrating Electricity from Solar Energy in Electricity Power System.” 2014. Print. Top of Form Bottom of Form Top of Form [5]. Safoora, O.K. “Smart Grid Can Make Saudi Arabia Megawatt Exporer.” (2011). Print. [6]. Greg B, Paul D, Easan D, Robert M. and Matthew M. “Toward a solar-powered grid.” 2011. Print. [7]. Akbar, M, F.M Zedan, M.A Abdul-Majeed, and K.Y Al-Soufi. "Design of Hv Transmission Lines to Combat Insulator Pollution Problems in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia." Ieee Transactions on Power Delivery. 6.4 (1991): 1912-1921. Print. [8]. Top of Form Al-Faraj, M A, M H. Shwehdi, and A S. Farag. "Enviromental Effect on High Voltage Ac Transmission Lines Audible Noise." Proceedings. 3 (1997): 2082. Print. Bottom of Form Top of Form [9]. Saudi Arabia. Top of Form Electricity Growth and Development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Up to the Year. Riyadh: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ministry of Industry and Electricity, Electrical Affairs Agency, Studies and Statistics, 1900. Print. [10]. Eltamaly, A.M. "Design and Simulation of Wind Energy System in Saudi Arabia." Proceedings - International Conference on Intelligent Systems, Modelling and Simulation, Isms. (2013): 376-383. Print. Bottom of Form Bottom of Form Bottom of Form Bottom of Form Read More

Problem Statement When it comes to production of greenhouse gases, KSA is ranked 14th worldwide [2]. What is more, statistics shown in Table 1 indicates the past trend in the amount of electricity consumed annually, and which has been on an increase. Such an exponential growth can be used to extrapolate into the future where power consumption is higher and generation is predicted to reach 680 Billion kWH by 2030. Table 1: KSA Electricity Trend over the Years In 2010, the emission of carbon dioxide was about 238 million (in terms of metric tons) due to the effect of burning more fossil fuels for generation of electricity.

This implies that if the trend continues, it may create a catastrophic impact on the environment. The trend for carbon emission is highlighted in the Table below. Table 2: Trend for Carbon Dioxide Emission It is from such a background there necessitates the need to investigate, in detail, the subject of integration of renewable energy in Saudi Arabia. Research Objectives This research proposal will examine the following specific and broad objectives in light of the subject under research: Specific Objectives To examine the renewable energy resource availability, variability and characteristics in the Electrical Power Supply System within Saudi Arabia To investigate the challenges and benefits of integrating renewable energy systems into the transmission lines in Saudi Arabia To explore the difference energy sources to be integrated into the Grid in Saudi Arabia General Objectives To study the literature content that makes inferences to the specific research objectives To outline the suitable methodological design for the research Research Questions Specific Questions The proposal offers the following specific research questions into the problem.

These questions include: What are the benefits of integrating renewable energy into the grid in Saudi Arabia? What are the different renewable energy sources being integrating into the transmission lines in Saudi Arabia? What impact does integration of renewable energy systems into the grid have on the current transmission system? General Questions What literature is available with regard to the subject of integration of renewable energy sources into the grid in Saudi Arabia? What are the appropriate research methodologies that can be applied in the research?

Research Scope and Outline This proposal has been divided into the following chapters. Introduction, Literature Review, Methodology and Conclusion. The Introduction defines the background to the problem, outlines the problem statement alongside research questions and objectives. The Literature Review explores the literature of past researchers on content related to this topic whereas the research methodology proposes the research methodology applicable in this research. Chapter 2: Literature Review Introduction This section of the proposal examines different literature on alternative energy sources which can be integrated into the energy supply grid in Saudi Arabia.

As the literature suggests, the energy sources reviewed here are only the non-pollutant renewable energy sources which, if integrated, will lead to a gradual decrease in carbon dioxide pollution and promote environmental friendliness. Different Energy Sources to be integrated into the Grid in Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia is not only blessed with oil, but also has a wide range of renewable energy sources. These potential sources of renewable energy include: Wind Energy Wind energy refers to where wind mills and turbines run by wind are used to harvest wind energy.

Application of wind energy harvesting requires a wide open area where the wind turbines and energy plants can be located. Saudi Arabia, being a dry country, has a lot of wide open areas with unlimited flow of high speed wind. This means that, if integrated, wind energy can be economical and effectively sustain a big percentage of the energy requirements of the country. Wind energy is renewable and environmental friendly, which are some of the factors the Saudi Arabia has focus on and this shows the probability of high investments on this sector by the government.

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