(MENAFN- The Peninsula) A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed yesterday that could see solar technologies installed in the upcoming rail network.
Qatar Solar Technologies (QSTec), building a 150MW solar module manufacturing facility and a 8,000MT polysilicon plant in Qatar, said it had entered into an MoU with Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) to explore opportunities that may lead to the installation of up to 80MW of solar technology in the multi-billion-dollar railway development.
The first stage of the MoU will look at installing ground and rooftop mounted solar PV installations on the proposed 3,000,000sqm rail depot near Sheikh Hamad International Airport.
Qatar Rail aims at building one of the world's most energy-efficient rail networks through the use of sustainable and energy-efficient technologies to achieve a four-star GSAS rating (Global Sustainability Assessment System).
Sustainability and efficient use of resources is a key element of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the use of solar technologies will assist in achieving the rating.
"We are honoured to be involved with Qatar Rail through this 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 essence of Qatar National Vision 2030 and we look forward to working 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 signing, Engineer Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Turki Al Subaie, Managing Director and Chairman of the Executive Committee, Qatar Rail, said, "Qatar Rail places environment-friendly methods at the heart of the executive strategy of its projects. This comes after the company conducted an intensive study to assess the possible environmental impact of the railway network projects to ensure the protection of any affected environment.
"Solar energy development is one of the main green aspects of our project. Our partnership with QSTec helps us improve the eco-friendly feature of the rail network adopting 'Green Building' regulations, which consist of efficient use of energy and water and reduction of waste and environmental degradation."
Qatar is developing a world- class 750km rail infrastructure incorporating Doha Metro, Lusail light rail transit system and Long Distance Passenger and Freight Rail to link with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain while creating a new industry for the state.
The three projects are dynamic; they work in integration to connect Qatar's key areas with each other and their vital extensions.
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