Mohammad Alkhonaifer
Student of Engineering
University of Texas at Austin
I am a Petroleum Engineering student at The University of Texas at Austin and a distinguished college scholar sponsored by Saudi Aramco. I gained hands-on research experience during my internship with Aramco Americas in Houston, where I worked with the Drilling Technologies team on developing and testing advanced fluid and cement systems. This experience strengthened my interest in integrating engineering innovation with sustainability-driven solutions. My academic and research focus centers on improving resource efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and advancing practical technologies that support the energy transition, particularly at the intersection of drilling, water management, and low-carbon energy systems.
Participates in
TECHNICAL PROGRAMME | Primary Energy Supply
This paper proposes a novel application of an integrated renewable energy system—including concentrated solar power, solar ponds, wind, and pressure-retarded osmosis—for decentralized water desalination and reuse in shale gas operations. The system, originally proposed for broader water-energy integration, is adapted here for field-scale deployment at Jafurah. It enables the treatment of flowback and produced water for reuse, reducing freshwater withdrawal and brine disposal, while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 sustainability targets.
Key performance metrics are presented to compare desalinated water yield and energy consumption under conventional and renewable-powered systems. Findings indicate significant potential for cost savings and emissions reduction by integrating such renewable platforms into gas field water management strategies. The work supports a pathway to an energy future that addresses both environmental stewardship and operational resilience.
This abstract is submitted in collaboration with a broader proposal on renewable-integrated systems for national energy and water security.
