QatarEnergy has formalised the signing of a contract with Samsung C&T Corporation for the construction of a large-scale solar power plant in Dukhan, about 80 kilometres west of Doha. The project, planned in two phases, will reach a total electricity generation capacity of 2,000 megawatts (MW) by mid-2029. It is among the largest solar installations in the world, according to information shared during the signing ceremony.
Gradual launch through 2029
The first phase of the solar plant is expected to deliver 1,000 MW to the Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (KAHRAMAA) grid by the end of 2028. The facility will use a solar tracker system and inverters designed to operate efficiently under the region’s extreme weather conditions. This technology aims to optimise the plant’s long-term energy performance.
The agreement was signed by Minister of State for Energy Affairs and President and Chief Executive Officer of QatarEnergy, Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, along with Sechul Oh, President and Chief Executive Officer of Samsung C&T. Also present were KAHRAMAA President Abdulla bin Ali Al-Theyab and senior executives from both entities.
Renewable generation target of 4,000 MW
According to statements made during the event, the Dukhan plant is part of QatarEnergy’s sustainability strategy, which aims to generate more than 4,000 MW of renewable energy by 2030. Once operational, the facility is expected to supply up to 30% of the country’s peak electricity demand.
QatarEnergy estimates that the Dukhan solar complex, combined with the Al-Kharsaah, Mesaieed and Ras Laffan plants, will reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 4.7 mn tonnes. These projects are intended to reinforce energy security while diversifying the country’s power generation mix.
