Working on goals set under Vision 2030 for achieving a sustainable energy mix through a comprehensive renewable energy program, Saudia Dairy and Foodstuff Company (SADAFCO) has launched a solar power project in Riyadh.
SADAFCO has commenced operations of the new solar project that comes in line with goals of switching to renewable energy, offering new employment opportunities and creating economic diversification.
“The new solar power project at our Riyadh Regional Distribution Center (RDC) is utilizing a photo-voltaic (PV)-diesel hybrid system that can deliver half of the facility’s daytime energy requirements,” said Wout Matthijs, SADAFCO CEO, during a media tour at the RDC in Riyadh on Tuesday.
“We are excited that the RDC solar project is operational as it is a huge step toward becoming more sustainable,” stated Matthijs adding, “We are looking forward to find new ways to become more efficient and applying these to other areas in which SADAFCO operates.”
“This is not just about powering our business, but reducing our operation’s carbon footprint in a way that is socially responsible,” he said.
Covering a surface area of about 1,600 sq m, over 2,000 solar cells have been installed atop the carport structures in the parking area offering the additional benefit of sun shade for cars. The project will operate high performance thin film photo-voltaic modules from US-headquartered First Solar, Inc. These modules deliver more energy than conventional crystalline silicon panels, in the hot, humid and dusty conditions experienced in the greater part of the Kingdom. The hybrid system will not only result in cost savings from reduced diesel consumption on the generators necessary for an off-the-grid facility, but will decrease pollution as well.
Furthermore, SADAFCO will utilize the most eco-efficient solar technology as it generates 226 kw of power from the sun and combines it with output of existing diesel generators, added Matthijs.

Source: Arab News