Saudi Society faces Energy Shift amid Record Heat

This summer, temperatures in Saudi Arabia and the UAE reached unbearable highs, with some reports indicating that while the mercury showed 48°C, it felt closer to 60°C. The Gulf region stood out on weather maps fire-red in contrast to the rest of the world, with only Marrakesh coming close. The oppressive heat has not only tested the endurance of the residents but also brought to light the critical importance of reliable energy and water supplies.

Despite this year’s heatwaves hitting the headlines, it’s reasonable to suggest that decades ago the situation was even more precarious. During the sweltering summer months, it wasn’t uncommon for electricity and water to be cut off due to overuse or infrastructure issues. Residents would wait for hours hoping for someone to restore power, while water trucks struggled to meet the demand of parched neighbourhoods. For those raised today, the idea of functioning without reliable gas or electricity, let alone on less of it, seems almost impossible. The concept of green energy - solar, wind, and other renewables - is also a relatively new one in the Kingdom.

Subsidy cuts - a necessary shock to the system

In 2016, the Saudi government made its first significant reduction in subsidies, leading to higher prices for electricity and water. This was a response to budget deficits caused by low oil prices and was followed by a second wave of subsidy cuts in 2018, further increasing costs. These measures were intended to encourage more efficient energy use and to push the Kingdom closer to its goal of diversifying its economy away from oil dependence.

The recent cuts have had a profound impact on society. For many Saudi families, the price hikes have transformed energy conservation from a mere financial concern into a fundamental way of life. “The sudden jump in utility bills was a wake-up call,” says one Jeddah resident, echoing a widespread sentiment that has led to a significant shift in how people approach their daily consumption habits.

Energy Future

The article underlines Saudi Arabia’s ongoing struggle to reduce its reliance on oil for power generation, particularly during the peak summer months. While the government’s ambitious investments in renewable energy are a clear indication of its commitment to change, the societal impact is just as significant. Communities are beginning to confront the reality of an energy transition, where the long-held expectation of low-cost electricity can no longer be taken for granted. “It’s not just about saving money; it’s about adjusting to a new normal,” observes a social commentator in Riyadh.

As the Kingdom pushes forward with its renewable energy projects, aiming to generate over 100 gigawatts by 2030, the question for Saudi society is not only how quickly it can adapt to these shifts but also how deeply these changes will reshape cultural attitudes towards energy consumption.

The transition from oil to a mix of gas and renewables, while economically and environmentally sound, requires a shift in mindsets as much as in infrastructure. “We’re not just talking about infrastructure; we’re talking about changing mindsets,” notes a sociologist. The move toward renewable energy means that individuals will need to take a more active role in energy-saving practices, potentially reshaping social norms around consumption.

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