In order to improve performance and reduce cost as well as to develop modern methods for the desalination of water and the generation of power, the SWCC established a research and development center in Jubail in 1987. The research center includes five basic laboratories that are equipped with the most modern devices and experimental stations. The SWCC has given top priority to the process of training, with particular emphasis on the Saudization of jobs. In 1999, the SWCC was awarded the International Desalinating Agency Prize, in recognition of its achievements.