Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI) and VITO, an independent research and technology organisation from Belgium, recently signed an agreement which will allow them to work together to develop demonstration projects for smart energy and water systems.

QEERI is a research institute under Hamad Bin Khalifa University, while VITO has been operating in Qatar since 2016 through VITO Middle East LLC. The agreement is in line with the mission and vision of QEERI and VITO to assist the country in tackling its energy and water security challenges.

The agreement was signed by Dr Marc Vermeersch, QEERI Executive Director, and Dr Bruno Reyntjens, Commercial Director of VITO. Other officials from Qatar and Belgium were also present during the signing, which was held at the HBKU Research Complex.

Tackling Grand Challenges for Energy and Water Security

This collaboration will enable the two entities to bring together the expertise, and know-how of its scientists at their world-class facilities to develop new water and energy solutions for Qatar and the region. Combined efforts will be taken to improve and enhance several projects such as brine management, CO2 Capture and Use technology, rural microgrids, and effluent polishing.

According to Dr Vermeersch, their partnership with VITO will catalyse QEERI’s ability to move forward in helping Qatar tackle its Energy and Water Security Grand challenges.

We are looking forward to working closely with the skilled scientists, engineers and researchers from VITO.’

Dr Reyntjens added that VITO is more than a research centre and they aim to create impact with the implementation of sizable demonstration projects. Their partnership with QEERI aims to introduce breakthrough technologies in Qatar and the Middle East market.

HE Dr Bart de Groof, Ambassador of Belgium to Qatar, said that the Umbrella Agreement is a milestone for QEERI and VITO, and will strengthen the ties between Qatar and Belgium in essential areas such as energy efficiency or water treatment.

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