The UK and Saudi Arabia have entered discussions about a potential collaboration in space and innovation including the development of space-based solar power.

The countries’ governments are exploring a partnership between UK company Space Solar Ltd, and NEOM - a new Saudi city being built in the Tabuk Province to incorporate smart city innovations, “world-class technology” and data intelligence - which could see each nation committing significant investment into developing space based solar power (SBSP) in the coming years.

Business secretary Grant Shapps said: “Collaboration on a global scale is an essential part of realising the UK’s ambitions in science and innovation, which is why I am excited to be here in the Gulf – where we are now playing an integral role in influencing energy transition plans – to develop our bilateral relationship with a state so open to business, and with aspirations so grand.”

The discussions come after Saudi Basic Industries Corporation and electric construction company Alfanar recently committed to investing a combined total of £1.85 billion into decarbonisation and clean energy technology in Teesside.

The government also recently launched a £7 million tech fund to “make freight greener” and improve innovation in the sector.

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