Saudi Arabia is planning the world’s largest ever solar project, which would be 100 times larger than anything previously constructed.
When you think of Saudi Arabia, your mind probably jumps to oil. The country’s oil reserves are amongst the largest in the world and it’s the largest exporter of petroleum on the planet. But the current Saudi leaders want to change that. Among some moves towards social modernization -including letting women drive – the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is also looking to diversify its energy interests and that means investing in renewables like solar power.
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1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
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2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
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An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
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2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
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A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
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2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
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3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
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2. Egypt
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And the country has made a significant statement in support of renewable energy, reportedly agreeing to build the world’s largest solar power plant, which will dwarf the previous largest by a factor of 100. The cost of the project is an eye-watering $200 billion, and involves a partnership with the Japanese tech company SoftBank, Bloomberg reported.
The current largest solar power farm in the world is considered to be China’s Tengger Desert Solar Park, which has the capacity to produce 1,500MW. That record isn’t expected to last long, as Australia’s proposed Solar Choice Bulli Creek PV Plant is expected to have a capacity of 2GW. The new Saudi plant would be an enormous 200GW. The project will involve two solar parks, and construction on the first will begin this year, with electricity being generated from 2019.
Saudi Arabia currently has a total power capacity of 77GW, which is two thirds natural gas and one third oil. That means that 200GW of power would be way too much for the country to use itself, and the solar power would be exported elsewhere.
The move into solar power is part of a larger plan to diversify the economy of the country. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has repeatedly criticized the Kingdom’s addiction to oil, as he looks to make sweeping changes to the country. The 32-year-old Prince has also lifted bans on entertainment such as cinemas, public music festivals, and tourism. Additionally, he’s scaled back the restrictions facing women in the country.
However, some believe this is no more than a publicity act to paper over the continuing accusations of human rights abuse and crack downs on dissenting voices in the country. While the Kingdom still has a long way to go in that respect, at least ditching oil for solar power will help the country and the planet in the battle against climate change.
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