RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology and ACWA Power have signed a deal to establish a research center for clean energy and desalination technologies, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday. The Center for the Development of Clean Energy Technologies and Water Desalination marks a pivotal step toward advancing eco-friendly energy and water desalination technologies in the region. The research facility will focus on conducting scientific studies in key areas within the clean energy and water sectors. Among its primary objectives are the development of solar energy technologies, developments supporting photovoltaic power stations under harsh climatic conditions, energy storage applications for future energy networks, and innovative materials for desalination membranes. The center aims to leverage artificial intelligence and advanced digital technologies to enhance research outcomes and fulfill its goals. Additionally, the hub is set to bolster ACWA Power’s presence in the National Laboratories Complex and Innovation Oases, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation between the academic community and the business sector. Furthermore, being one of the largest water desalination companies in the world, ACWA Power also intends to transfer innovative technology from this domain to various industrial sectors. The agreement was signed in the presence of KACST President Munir El-Desouki, ACWA Power Chairman Mohammed Abunayyan, and KACST Senior Vice President for Research and Development Talal Al-Sedairy. It was formalized by KACST Deputy President for Energy and Industry Saeed Al-Shihri and ACWA Power Executive Vice President for Innovation and New Technology Thomas Altmann. Al-Shihri emphasized the importance of the project in linking technical products with the needs of both government and private sectors. He highlighted the center’s role in achieving national research, development, and innovation aspirations, particularly in creating sustainable technologies in water desalination and clean energy. Altmann expressed enthusiasm for the promising journey ahead. He underscored the partnership’s aim to provide innovative and practical solutions that meet market needs swiftly and contribute to the local research and innovation system, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.