Qatar is making significant progress in enhancing the sustainability of its desalination sector through the adoption of advanced technologies and renewable energy sources. Guillermo Hijós, Desalination Director for the Middle East and Oceania at Acciona’s Water business, told The Peninsula that these initiatives are designed to reduce energy consumption, minimize environmental impact, and ensure a reliable, eco-friendly water supply for the nation.
A key milestone in this journey has been the implementation of Acciona’s AI-driven Maestro platform at Qatar’s Umm Al Houl desalination plant, which has a capacity exceeding 500,000 m³/day. Meanwhile, the Ras Abu Fontas 3 plant delivers 165,000 m³/day. Together, these facilities supply drinking water to approximately 2.9 million residents, forming a cornerstone of Qatar’s water infrastructure.
Both plants, operated by Acciona on behalf of Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa), have been awarded ISO 50001 certification for their energy management systems—marking the company’s first international certification of this kind and highlighting its commitment to operational energy efficiency.
“Through these concerted efforts, Qatar is making significant strides towards a more sustainable and efficient desalination sector, balancing its growing water needs with environmental stewardship,” said Hijós.
Given that the Middle East is responsible for a substantial portion of the world’s brine production, effective brine management strategies are critical. Experts stress the need for integrated solutions combining renewable energy, advanced technologies, and water conservation practices to mitigate environmental risks.
In support of its Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030), the country is also investing in solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to power segments of its desalination infrastructure. Although still in the early stages, these projects aim to gradually reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Further driving innovation, the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI) has developed a Multi-Effect Distillation (MED) pilot plant in Dukhan. This system demonstrates notable energy efficiency, consuming just 4.5 kWh/m³, compared to the 12 kWh/m³ typically required by conventional thermal desalination methods—significantly lowering energy use and operational costs.
“This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to improving the energy performance of desalination facilities through advanced technological solutions,” Hijós added. “The ISO 50001 certification validates our energy efficiency policies and our goal of meeting the highest international standards in sustainable operations.”
With these advancements, Qatar continues to position itself as a regional leader in sustainable water management, reinforcing its transition toward a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy.