Qatar’s 500 MW Solar Tender: 16 Bidders Pre-Qualified

Qatar pre-qualifies 16 bidders for its 500 MW solar tender near Al-Kharsaah, marking a major step in the country's renewable energy plans.

Qatar Pre-Qualifies 16 Bidders for 500 MW Solar Tender

Meta Title: Qatar’s 500 MW Solar Tender: 16 Bidders Pre-Qualified
Meta Description: Qatar pre-qualifies 16 bidders for its 500 MW solar tender near Al-Kharsaah, marking a major step in the country’s renewable energy plans.

Qatar Advances Its Renewable Energy Goals

Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) has pre-qualified 16 bidders for its 500 MW solar power project. This marks a crucial step in the country’s transition to clean energy. The pre-qualification process, launched in May, has drawn interest from global renewable energy leaders.

Who Are the Selected Bidders?

Kahramaa revealed the shortlisted companies in a recent video. The selected bidders include a mix of European, Asian, and international firms.

• Europe: Enel (Italy), Engie (France), Total (France), Innogy (Germany), and X-Elio (Spain).
• Asia: Zorlu Enerji (Turkey), CGL New Energy (Hong Kong), JinkoPower (China), and Power Construction Corporation of China.
• Korea & Japan: Kepco, Hanwha Q Cells, Mitsubishi, Mitsui & Co., Sojitz Corporation, Marubeni Corporation, and Itochu Corporation.

Project Location and Timeline

The project will be developed near Al-Kharsaah, west of Doha. It has the potential to expand up to 700 MW. The first phase, delivering 350 MW, is expected to connect to the national grid by late 2020. This timeline aligns with Qatar’s National Development Strategy 2018-2022.

Kahramaa plans to issue a request for bids by the end of 2018. The project will operate under a Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) model. After 25 years, ownership will shift to Kahramaa.

Investment and Strategic Partners

The initial 350 MW phase is estimated to cost between $500 million and $600 million. Future expansions could increase capacity to 1 GW.

A key partner in the project is Siraj Power Energy, a joint venture between Qatar Petroleum (QP) and Kahramaa. Qatar Petroleum holds a 40% stake, while Kahramaa owns 60%. This partnership underscores Qatar’s commitment to investing in sustainable energy solutions.

Qatar’s Growing Solar Energy Sector

Qatar has been slower than other Gulf nations in adopting solar power. However, with abundant sunlight, solar energy offers a practical and cost-effective solution for diversifying the country’s energy mix.

In addition to large-scale projects, Qatar hosts a 300 MW solar module production facility. This plant, operated by Qatar Solar Energy (QSE), supports the country’s long-term renewable energy ambitions.

What This Means for Qatar’s Energy Future

With a strong lineup of international bidders and a clear development plan, Qatar’s 500 MW solar project represents a major leap forward. The initiative will not only increase the share of renewable energy but also position the country as a leader in sustainable power generation.