Qatar: The use of solar power and other renewable energy sources is set to boost with the launch of a comprehensive strategy by the Qatar General Electricity and Water Corp.

The utility, also known as Kahramaa, formulated the Qatar National Renewable Energy Strategy to add  renewable sources to its energy mix.

The initiative, developed in coordination with 22 key energy actors, aligns with Qatar’s commitment to a sustainable future and the goals outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third Qatar National Development Strategy 2024-2030, according to a report issued by Qatar News Agency. 

With the annual production of more than 2,000 kilowatt hours of solar power per square meter, Qatar is one of top countries with the highest potential for producing this clean form of energy.

As per the strategy, Qatar aims to expand its renewable power generation capacity to approximately 4 gigawatts by 2030, with distributed solar generation contributing around 200 megawatts.  

This distributed approach will decentralize power generation, ease the burden on the centralized grid, and enhance the overall energy resilience of the nation. 

The launch of the strategy marks a crucial step toward redefining Qatar’s energy landscape as it promises substantial economic, environmental, and security benefits.  

The plan is projected to reduce the average cost of electricity generation by 15 percent by 2030 through cost-effective renewable solutions.  

In terms of its environmental impact, the strategy supports the reduction of carbon emissions, targeting a 10 percent cut in annual emissions from the power sector and a 27 percent reduction in CO2 intensity per unit of electricity produced. 

From an energy security perspective, diversifying power sources is crucial as the strategy emphasizes the importance of maintaining system reliability during the transition to renewables.  

To this end, the strategy proposes a balanced mix of large-scale renewable projects and efficient thermal generation using natural gas. 

Kahramaa’s responsibilities under QNRES include regulating renewable energy practices, issuing licenses, monitoring compliance, executing detailed deployment programs, managing stakeholder interactions, and supporting research and innovation initiatives.  

Moreover, the utility company has begun accepting applications for accredited solar panels and inverters, setting the stage for a comprehensive rollout of distributed renewable energy systems. 

The strategy also included the introduction of net-billing for distributed renewable generation, allowing prosumers to sell surplus electricity back to the grid at fixed prices.  

This system employs bidirectional meters to measure both consumption and surplus electricity exported to the grid, with credits applied to consumers’ accounts to offset future consumption costs.