In an effort to promote research, development and innovation of solar-related technologies within desert climates, Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), recently launched the QEERI Solar Consortium – a membership-based programme for research, testing and demonstration of groundbreaking solar energy technologies.

QEERI Solar Consortium brings together researchers, engineers, technology producers, project developers and local authorities from the solar energy field, to shape a common focus on practical tests of solar-based devices and systems within Qatar’s desert environment.

The programme’s inaugural meeting, held at the QEERI offices, was attended by the consortium’s board members and several global industry leaders. They discussed the consortium’s operations strategy, which aims to demonstrate, validate and accelerate the development of solar-energy technologies suited to desert climates.

Members of the consortium will have access to field test data of reference technologies as well as advanced industrial laboratory capabilities, in order to conduct research for the development of the industry.

The Solar Consortium will also contribute to drive research, development, and innovation efforts and address main industry challenges in the solar-energy sector. Members will contribute through research on technical issues to accelerate the development and deployment of solar energy in Qatar, and at the same time positioning the country as a leading example in solar-research within desert-conditions.

According to Consortium Chair Dr Veronica Bermudez Benito, one of QEERI’s primary goals is to assist in overcoming Qatar’s Grand Challenges in relation to energy security.

To that effect, we do extensive work in the field of solar energy and its integration within the broader global energy system. There are many challenges that are specific to the country. Building a solid understanding of the reliability and degradation pathways is a key component for the future economic competitiveness of solar technologies.’

She said that by bringing together stakeholders, researchers, industry players and authorities onto a common platform, they will be able to address challenges and work towards our shared goals most efficiently.

Director of Energy Affairs Department at the Ministry of Energy and Industry, Sheikh Mishal Jabor Al Thani added that Qatar is well on its path to diversifying its energy mix, which will in turn have a positive impact on the country’s economy. He said that in the coming days, institutes like QEERI and the newly-launched Solar Consortium will play key roles in providing scientific research and development data necessary to fuel the engines of the country’s economy with renewable and sustainable energy.

We are confident that the expertise and commitment of QEERI’s scientists to innovation will help guide future policy-making as well as accelerate the country’s capability for the large-scale deployment of solar power, allowing us to preserve our environment and natural resources for future generations.’

Members will get exclusive access to confidential data and research in relation to their own products; all research outputs will be a product of QEERI. Membership to the consortium is open to organisations and authorities in the field of solar energy within and outside Qatar.

For more information on membership requirements, you can send an email to [email protected].