Transitioning to Alternative Fuels: A Study on the Feasibility of Synthetic Fuels in Saudi Arabia's Road Transport Sector

Abstract

Researchers are exploring alternative fuels to transition away from conventional fuels, driven by the need to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. The transportation sector is a significant consumer of fuels, making it a crucial area for alternative fuel adoption. This study is an expansion on earlier works by recognizing the potential for synfuels derived from fossil fuels to compete with fuels derived from renewable sources. Study illustrating possible transition scenarios in the road transport sector to replace gasoline and diesel in fossil fuel-dependent economies, including Saudi Arabia. The study highlights the potential of alternative fuels like ethanol and hydrogen to meet demand due to of technology developments that increase efficiency and reduce the costs. The findings demonstrate that by 2050, synthetic fuel production will significantly lower the crude oil consumption and CO2 emissions. This study, a first for the region, assesses the implementation of synthetic fuels produced from fossil fuels. Study shows that significant modification in policies and their execution is required, and alternative fuels can be cost-competitive with conventional fuels if Saudi Arabia's strict CO2 reduction targets are met. The study provides a preliminary assessment of the system implementation and underscores the need for strict regulations to drive the transition to alternative fuels.