Saudi Energy Minister calls for realistic dialogue on renewable transition

Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Minister of Energy

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman emphasized the need for realistic and pragmatic discussions on transitioning to renewable energy, noting that such discussions are currently underway and actively pursued for tangible solutions.

Speaking at the 2024 Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group annual meetings, the minister expressed that the fight is not against combating climate change, but ensuring the process is fair and yields sustainable results.

He highlighted the impracticality of expecting poor countries to transition to renewable energy when many still struggle to provide basic services such as electricity and cooking facilities or to develop economically.

Prince Abdulaziz stressed that transitioning requires substantial resources, which these countries often need to address more pressing issues.

The minister concluded that finding globally acceptable, realistic methods and practical approaches is crucial for facilitating worldwide cooperation in the shift towards renewable energy sources.