Recording of Thursday, September 03, 2026 | Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Language: English | Duration: 11:22 .
Solar energy presents a substantial opportunity for transforming energy production, particularly in desert regions, traditionally viewed as inhospitable. Deserts can store significant amounts of thermal energy, with one cubic meter of sand capable of holding around 42 kilowatt-hours. This project's pilot program, utilizing research from Masdar City and Khalifa University, focuses on underground storage, capitalizing on local sands with high-temperature sensible heat. The system comprises both above-ground solar thermal collectors and an underground reservoir for energy storage. During the day, solar energy heats a fluid which transfers energy to the subsurface. The potential output from this method is impressive, with 5,000 cubic meters of soil yielding about 200 megawatts, which could translate to 20 to 30 megawatts of electricity per hour. A control system, aided by AI, optimizes production by forecasting solar conditions and managing energy demands. By integrating these technologies, the project seeks to redefine the use of desert environments for sustainable energy solutions.
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Speaker
Dr. Moutaz Alriahy
Co-Founder & CEO
Creta Group
UAE
Explore how solar thermal and photovoltaic solutions are driving industrial decarbonization. This session highlights cutting-edge applications, from process heat to on-site power generation, showcasing successful projects, cost benefits, and integration strategies that reduce emissions, boost efficiency, and advance sustainability across energy-intensive sectors worldwide.
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