Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy is one of the main pillars of global development. It supports economic growth, environmental protection, and human well-being. King Salman International University (KSIU) recognizes the vital role of clean energy in achieving sustainable progress and actively contributes to the realization of SDG 7 through education, research, and campus operations.
Global Context and Importance
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development emphasizes ensuring universal access to affordable and reliable energy while increasing the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. It also highlights improving energy efficiency and promoting international cooperation to enhance access to clean energy technologies. Special attention is directed toward supporting developing and least developed countries to achieve energy sustainability.
Scientific Research
According to the Scival database for the period 2021–2024, the university’s scientific production in the field of clean and affordable energy includes 32 research papers with an average impact of 1.71 and 354 citations. Research areas include renewable energy, energy efficiency, smart grids, solar air heaters, and sustainable power systems. The university encourages faculty members and researchers to publish in high-impact international journals to advance scientific innovation and strengthen its contribution to global clean energy development.
University Efforts and Practical Initiatives
- Installing solar panels at the Sharm El-Sheikh campus to generate renewable energy, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and participate in the Green Sharm El-Sheikh initiative. Additional solar stations are under construction at the El-Tur and Ras Sudr campuses.
- Establishment of an 80 kW solar power station for research and study of small-scale energy networks, funded by UNDP through the Ministry of Trade and Industry (1.9 million EGP).
- Continuous monitoring of electricity consumption across all university facilities to ensure efficient energy use.
- Activation of the university’s smart electronic infrastructure to reduce energy consumption through advanced lighting and automation systems.
- Connection of Ras Sudr laboratories to natural gas networks to reduce operating costs and environmental impact.
- Support for research projects focusing on economic, productivity, and energy efficiency studies.
- Integration of clean energy and technological education within the College of Technological Industries to prepare students for the energy sector.
- Emphasis on practical and field training for students across various programs related to energy systems.
- Operation of the University Center for Professional Development in collaboration with the American University in Cairo to train students in entrepreneurship and sustainability.
- Organization of regular employment and training forums to enhance graduate employability in the energy and technology sectors.
- Establishment of a graduate follow-up office to support alumni in energy-related career paths.
- Development of new academic programs focusing on business management, economic growth, and sustainable resource management.
- Awareness campaigns for students and staff about entrepreneurship and green innovation.
- Introduction of three electric vehicles for internal transportation at the El-Tur campus to promote clean mobility.
- Implementation of energy rationalization programs across university branches, leading to a 23% reduction in electricity consumption in 2023.
- Adoption of VRF air conditioning systems to achieve up to 60% reduction in total electricity consumption.
- Utilization of solar cells producing approximately 155 MWh per year to support renewable energy transition.
- Ongoing expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, including two new solar power stations and a wind station at El-Tur.
- Replacement of traditional electrical devices with energy-efficient alternatives.
- Practical training for Energy program students at Sharm El-Sheikh Gas Power Plant to study generation efficiency and clean technologies.
- Collaboration with the Arab Organization for Industrialization on AI-based projects optimizing industrial energy use.
- Integration of renewable energy and sustainability concepts into curricula of engineering and environmental programs to promote energy awareness and competence among students.
Practical Training and Industrial Collaboration
Students of the Energy program participated in hands-on training at the Sharm El-Sheikh Gas Power Plant to understand energy generation and efficiency measures. Engineering and Computer Science students also trained with the Arab Organization for Industrialization in fields such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, focusing on optimizing energy use in industrial applications. These initiatives promote practical knowledge and align academic training with real-world energy challenges.
Partnerships and International Cooperation
The university continues to expand partnerships with national and international institutions to support clean energy innovation and technology transfer. Collaboration with industry and governmental bodies ensures that applied research contributes directly to Egypt’s sustainable energy goals and to global clean energy transitions.
Conclusion
King Salman International University demonstrates a clear commitment to achieving SDG 7 through scientific research, innovative teaching, sustainable campus operations, and active collaboration with industry and international partners. By integrating renewable energy technologies, improving efficiency, and fostering student engagement, the university continues to serve as a model for clean and sustainable energy practices within higher education.