Saudi Arabia’s NEOM, a cornerstone of Vision 2030, is pushing the limits of urban power transformation. With a $500 billion allocation, this 26,500 km² megacity embeds building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) into every structure, using 2,200 kWh/m² of yearly solar radiation to secure a completely renewable power grid. From perovskite solar windows to smart grid systems optimized by machine learning, NEOM is overhauling sustainable city design.
BIPV Directive and Structural Innovation
Perovskite Solar Windows: Blending Look with Performance
NEOM’s structures come outfitted with perovskite solar windows that deliver 18% efficiency while keeping 70% transparency. These inkjet-printed cells, developed alongside firms such as Panasonic, slash cooling needs by 25% compared to standard glazing while generating electricity. Early models in Osaka’s intelligent buildings confirm their practicality in desert settings, where managing heat is critical.
Adaptive PV Shading Mechanisms
Integrated photovoltaic shading devices (PVSDs) balance power production, daylight control, and thermal comfort. Projects like Poland’s Saules Technology sunshades—with perovskite modules and automated tracking—shape NEOM’s designs. These devices adjust blade angles on the fly, cutting cooling demand by 24% in Riyadh’s extreme weather.
The Line: A Zero-Emission Blueprint
NEOM’s 170-km linear urban zone, The Line, shows how BIPV can curb emissions in both mobility and infrastructure:
- Vertical Solar Farms: Building facades double as energy generators, with initial plans aiming for 1.5 GW via PV-integrated high-rises.
- High-Speed Rail: A completely solar-powered rail network connects urban sectors, phasing out cars and slashing transport emissions.
- Grid Systems Optimized by Machine Learning: Advanced algorithms forecast energy needs, balancing rooftop solar arrays, wind turbines, and hydrogen storage.
Large-Scale Renewable Power Infrastructure
Solar and Wind Hybridization
ENOWA, NEOM’s power division, is rolling out 20 GW of solar PV parks over 420 km² in Tabuk and Duba. In collaboration with Assystem, these setups will meet 65% of NEOM’s power requirements, bolstered by an extra 1.2 GW of wind capacity. This combined approach guarantees round-the-clock renewable energy—even during sandstorms or periods of low solar input.
Green Hydrogen Production
The $8.4 billion Helios Plant, a joint venture with ACWA Power and Air Products, is set to produce 650 tons of green hydrogen per day by 2026. Electrolyzers fueled by NEOM’s solar/wind mix will power industries and feed export markets.
Policies and Collaborations Driving Adoption
Regulatory Structures
- 100% BIPV Requirement: Every building must include solar components—from pedestrian-friendly pavers at Sindalah Island to Mitrex’s stone-clad walls in industrial zones.
- Saudi Green Initiative: Tax incentives and $2.1 billion in government backing are accelerating the uptake of private BIPV projects.
Global Alliances
- Onyx Solar: Transparent PV skylights at the Nori Research Centre produce 5.9 million kWh over 35 years.
- SwissINSO: Kromatix-colored BIPV panels grace Dewa’s R&D Centre, merging efficiency with a signature look.
Hurdles and Answers
Adaptation to Arid Environments
- Dust Resistance: Nanocoated solar modules repel sand, keeping efficiency at 95% in Muğla-style dry conditions.
- Heat Tolerance: Phase-change materials in PVSDs absorb excess thermal energy, reducing peak temperatures by 1.8°C.
Grid Stability
NEOM’s Smart Energy Platform (DEP) connects over 500 substations, enabling real-time load balancing between spread-out BIPV systems and centralized solar/wind installations. Pilot vehicle-to-grid (V2G) networks in Hidden Marina allow two-way energy transfer with electric vehicles, smoothing sudden demand surges.
