A Review of Solar Energy Exploration and Utilization in Saudi Buildings

Abstract

The building construction sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the largest and fastest in the Middle East. It is estimated that 2.32 million new homes are to be built by 2020 in order to meet the demand of growing population. Despite possessing ample potential, the realization of solar energy technology in Saudi Buildings has a long way to go. This article sheds light into the progress in exploring the utilization of solar energy in the Saudi Arabian building sector. Starting with a background of energy scenario, the article covers the policy-level measures and research and development activities reported so far. This review reveals the Kingdom has wide scope for further developments to ensure that all the viable state-of-the-art solar technologies are implemented in buildings.