MAKKAH: Saudi Geological Survey (SGS) CEO Abdullah Mofter Al-Shamrani held a meeting with Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the China Atomic Energy Authority, Liu Jing, and his accompanying delegation at the SGS headquarters in Jeddah.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss collaboration in the field of geosciences and explore alternative terrestrial energy sources.
The four-day visit was part of a series of meetings with officials from the Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission and the SGS.
The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in geosciences and harnessing nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
Abdullah Al-Juhani, Chief Geologist at the SGS, highlighted China’s expertise in radioactive energy, describing it as “one of the world’s leading countries” in the field.
He emphasized the previous successful collaboration between SGS and the China National Nuclear Corp. in uranium exploration in Saudi Arabia from 2017 to 2019.
The project yielded promising outcomes and technical reports, leading to the establishment of eight databases related to thorium and uranium sources in the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia to achieve renewable energy goals
Dr. Khaled Bankher, a leader in investment in renewable geothermal energy sources, expressed optimism about achieving the initiative’s goals, with a particular focus on Madinah.
The exploration of energy in lava fields and granitic rock areas with high radioactive content aims to tap into geothermal energy and generate electricity from sustainable natural sources. The initiative is expected to expand to cover other regions of Saudi Arabia.
Dr. Bankher explained that underground energy could be transferred to the surface and harnessed through specialized stations to generate renewable, clean, and environmentally friendly energy.
This aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, contributing to sustainable development in the country.
