Qatar shines light on energy efficiency

Plans to test solar panels and energy-efficient lighting in Qatar will soon be put into action. This follows Chevron’s appointment of Mike Farshchi as research manager of its Centre for Sustainable Energy Efficiency at Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP). Farshchi will be responsible for working with local organisations to identify and deploy
sustainable energy technologies specifically suited to Middle East conditions.

Chevron is investing US$20 million over five years in the Centre for Sustainable Energy Efficiency, a collaborative partnership with QSTP that aims to spur the adoption of green technologies in Qatar. Farshchi was previously a project engineer at Chevron Energy Solutions, headquartered in San Francisco, which has implemented hundreds of
solar and energy-efficiency projects for customers, and is one of the largest energy service companies operating in the US.

The Centre for Sustainable Energy Efficiency, which is expected to open in October 2010, will help MEP engineers to:

•  Identify solar power, solar air-conditioning and low-energy lighting technologies best suited for Qatar’s specific desert environment;
•  Provide training and internships for MEP engineers, officials and students in sustainable energy; and
• Assist local authorities, property developers and architects to consider and implement green building technologies.

“I have been involved in sustainable energy for many years in the US, and have seen the industry take off. Chevron alone has implemented more than US$3 billion of energy efficiency projects since 2002. Qatar’s excellent education and research base, plus abundant sunshine, provide the opportunity to introduce green technologies that benefit this region,” said Farshchi.