oa The potential of solar in Qatar Vision 2030

Qatar has a strong solar energy potential, (2070-2250)kWH/m²yr, which could fulfil the future need for energy balance outlined in Qatar Vision 2030. The mean hourly, daily, monthly and yearly solar irradiation data measured on the ground and by satellite, for several cities such as; Doha, Dukhan, Al-Khor, Ruwais, Abu-Samra, Al-Utoriyah, and Rodhat Al-Faras has been investigated. The measured data on the ground is compared with the satellite data. This preliminary investigation and data analysis could be good preliminary design for a "Qatar Solar Atlas".

The electrical energy consumption breakdown by sectors; residential, commercial, government, industrial, and the total consumption through (2007-2009) are studied. The residential sector has the highest consumption at 35%, while the industrial sector uses less. A residential villa consumes three times as much electrical energy as a residential flat. This sector needs energy auditing to save energy on air conditioning and lighting. The objective of this research is to assist and lead the authority and government to the energy roadmap, energy footprint, Qatar solar atlas, and energy policy to secure Qatar's energy future by minimizing energy demand and presenting the solar energy potential.

In this research, the potential of solar energy to achieve Qatar Vision 2030 is presented. The solar energy required to be installed is addressed with emphasize on the solar energy potential with gradual application using mature and proven solar technology, such as solar parabolic trough (20% efficiency) and solar dish-Stirling engine (30% efficiency). Solar dish-Ericsson engine as the state-of-the-art with advanced high solar efficiency (45%), which converters remain attractive candidate power supply technology to meet 21th century emission and fuel economy requirements are investigated.