Details
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology New Energy Oasis (NEO)
- Location:Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Date onstream:2009-05
- System Capacity:10 kWp
Raed Ahmad Kkayrat, PhD
Manager
Industry Collaboration (KICP, CIAP) Economic Dev.
KAUST
We are pleased with our results thus far. CIS modules make a great choice for the intense heat and light of arid regions like Saudi Arabia.
Site Overview
| Coordinates | 22.3° N, 31.2° E |
|---|---|
| Average Global Irradiance | 2,168 kWh/m2/yr |
| Average Temperature | 28.4 °C • 83.1 °F |
| Average Precipitation | 62.5 mm • 2.4 in/yr |
Technical Overview
| Panel Type | SC85-A (85 W) |
|---|---|
| Number of panels installed | 128 |
| Panel angle and Orientation | Tilt 20°, South 0° |
| Output | Jan. - Jun. 2010 6,800 kWh (AC) |
| CO2 reduction | 5,004 kg • 11,031 lbs |
The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) was inaugurated by its namesake, King Abdullah, in September 2009. Situated near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the 36-square kilometer campus holds cutting-edge laboratory and research facilities dedicated to three main areas of research: sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, water and the environment.
KAUST’s establishment follows the Saudi government’s decision to diversify its economy through the development of renewable energies, especially solar. Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil company and the contractor of KAUST, was selected as the technology and development partner to pursue this vision.
Solar Frontier, in support of the newly established NEO site at KAUST, provided the 10kW photovoltaic system for testing and evaluation purposes. The high ambient heat tolerance of thin-film CIS modules make them ideal for the intense sunlight of Jeddah and the west coast of Saudi Arabia. Data gathered from the system will be leveraged to support further expansion of solar projects throughout Saudi Arabia.
