GlassPoint is set to revolutionize industrial heat with plans for the world’s largest solar thermal project, Ma’aden, in Saudi Arabia. This $1.5 billion venture, in collaboration with Saudi mining firm Ma’aden and Spanish utility leader Cox, aims to decarbonize Ma’aden’s aluminum supply chain.
Innovative Solar Technology
The project kicks off with the GlassPoint Ma’aden Technology Showcase (GMTS), featuring advanced solar-to-heat technology and thermal storage. This initiative promises to cut industrial heat carbon emissions by up to 70% while maintaining cost efficiency compared to gas systems.
GlassPoint has integrated breakthroughs such as anticlastic polymer membranes, high-performance Niobium mirrors, and ternary liquid salt, reducing solar field costs by 30% and thermal storage costs by 50%.
Rod MacGregor, CEO of GlassPoint, emphasized the significance of the project, stating, Decarbonizing industrial heat is crucial for manufacturing low-carbon materials and achieving net-zero commitments.
Boosting Saudi Arabia’s Renewable Leadership
In partnership with the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA), GlassPoint plans to build a solar manufacturing facility in the kingdom. This facility will create over 200 green jobs and diversify the supply chain across the GCC, North Africa, and Southern Europe.
The GMTS will provide 1% of the steam for Ma’aden’s bauxite refinery at Ras Al Khair, cutting carbon emissions by 600,000 tons annually, equivalent to removing 130,000 cars from the road. Upon completion, it will meet 65% of the refinery’s steam demand.
Global Collaboration for Renewable Energy
GlassPoint’s partnership with Cox will enable further solar thermal projects globally. Enrique Riquelme, Executive Chairman of Cox, noted the increasing demand for decarbonized heat as industries strive to meet net-zero goals cost-effectively.
GlassPoint’s scalable solutions are poised to significantly reduce carbon emissions while offering economic benefits, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.
This project not only supports Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification and environmental objectives but also positions the kingdom as a leader in renewable energy and sustainable industrial practices.
