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Qatar Solar Technologies (QSTec) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) to explore opportunities that may lead to the installation of up to 80 MW of solar power within Qatar’s multi-billion dollar railway development. |
QSTec is currently building a 150MW solar module manufacturing facility and a 8,000 metric tonne polysilicon manufacturing plant in Qatar.
The first stage of the MoU will look at installing ground and rooftop mounted solar PV installations on the proposed 3,000,000 square metre rail depot facility that will be located near the new Hamad International Airport.
Qatar Rail is aiming to build one of the world’s most energy efficient rail networks through the use of sustainable and energy efficient technologies with a goal to achieving a 4 star GSAS rating (Global Sustainability Assessment System).
“We are honoured to be involved with Qatar Rail through this very important partnership, which will aim to utilise QSTec’s solar solutions to meet some of Qatar Rail’s energy requirements. This is a long term agreement that demonstrates the very essence of the Qatar National Vision 2030 and we look forward to working closely with Qatar Rail to develop sustainable solar energy solutions that meet their requirements for quality, reliability and exceptional service,” said Dr Khalid K al- Hajri, chairman and CEO, Qatar Solar Technologies.
Speaking at the MoU signing, Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Turki al-Subaie, managing director and chairman of the Executive Committee of Qatar Rail, said: “Qatar Rail places environment-friendly methods at the heart of the executive strategy of all its projects. This comes after the company conducted an intensive study to assess the possible environmental impact of the railway network projects, in order to ensure the protection of any affected environment. Solar energy development is one of the main green aspects of our project. Our strategic partnership with QSTec helps us improve the eco-friendly feature of the rail network adopting “Green Building” regulations, which consist of efficiently using energy and water, with reducing waste and environmental degradation”.
Qatar is developing a world class 750km rail infrastructure incorporating Doha metro, Lusail light rail transit system and the Long Distance Passenger and Freight Rail that links Qatar with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain while creating a new industry for Qatar. All three projects are dynamic; they work in full integration to connect Qatar’s key areas with each other and with their vital extensions.
