Qatar is accelerating utility-scale solar development to diversify its energy mix, reduce domestic gas consumption and curb emissions, while retaining natural gas as the backbone of power generation, according to GlobalData.

The intelligence firm’s latest report forecasts Qatar’s installed power capacity will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.2 per cent between 2025 and 2035. 

Solar photovoltaic capacity is expected to expand by 12.4 per cent annually, increasing renewables’ share of total power capacity from 12 per cent in 2025 to 25.9 per cent by 2035.

Major projects, including Al Kharsaah, Ras Laffan, Mesaieed and the planned Dukhan development, are supporting the transition towards a hybrid electricity system, said Attaurrahman Saibasan, power analyst at GlobalData.

However, natural gas will remain essential, accounting for about 74 per cent of cumulative capacity in 2035. 

Gas-fired combined-cycle turbines and cogeneration plants supply dispatchable electricity during peak summer demand while supporting seawater desalination.

Qatar aims to reach 4GW of renewable capacity by 2030, requiring flexible gas generation and improved grid management.

 Government initiatives, including the Qatar National Renewable Energy Strategy and Kahramaa’s net-billing regulations, support deployment.

The expansion is also intended to free up natural gas for liquefied natural gas exports while meeting rising industrial demand and maintaining grid reliability.