Doha, Qatar – The Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (KAHRAMAA) has announced comprehensive preparations to ensure reliable and sustainable utility services for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025. These efforts encompass electricity, water, conservation, energy efficiency, district cooling, and renewable energy, demonstrating Qatar’s commitment to hosting world-class sporting events while adhering to its National Vision 2030. KAHRAMAA states that a robust and prepared infrastructure is critical to a successful tournament and the continued development of the nation.
HE Eng. Abdullah bin Ali Al-Deyab, President of KAHRAMAA, emphasized the corporation’s dedication to providing uninterrupted services and upholding the highest standards of efficiency and sustainability throughout the event. This builds on experience gained from previous major sporting events hosted in Qatar, which has informed a more agile and integrated approach to utility management. According to KAHRAMAA, this preparation isn’t solely event-focused, but vital for long-term infrastructure resilience.
Strengthening Qatar’s Infrastructure with Renewable Energy and Efficiency
KAHRAMAA’s preparations are built upon leveraging its accumulated experience in managing essential utilities during large gatherings. The organization has focused on developing flexible operational mechanisms and expanding its monitoring and control capabilities to proactively address potential issues. Central to this strategy is an enhanced focus on both energy efficiency and increasing the contribution of renewable energy sources.
Electricity Sector Readiness
The electricity sector is undergoing significant upgrades, including comprehensive preventative maintenance for all high- and medium-voltage transmission substations. Eng. Ahmad Ali Alkuwari, Sector Director of Electricity Networks Affairs, noted the implementation of precise operational plans in line with the highest technical benchmarks to stabilize electricity supply to tournament venues. These plans have involved advanced load monitoring and rigorous testing of protection systems.
KAHRAMAA is also utilizing advanced digital monitoring to track electrical loads in real-time and make data-driven operational decisions. Specialized field teams with 24/7 emergency support are strategically positioned near stadiums and key facilities. Backup generators are in place to ensure voltage stability, regardless of demand fluctuations. This attention to detail aims to avert potential disruptions.
Water Supply Assurance
A wide-scale and advanced water system is being relied upon to meet the expected demand during the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025. This infrastructure features large-capacity strategic reservoirs located across the country, ensuring water availability even during peak operational periods. Flexible distribution networks have been developed to accommodate high demand efficiently.
Eng. Fahad Yousef Tolefat, Sector Director of Water Networks Affairs, highlighted the importance of a secure and stable water supply. Continuous monitoring of water levels and network pressure is being performed, utilizing high-precision systems. Furthermore, extensive laboratory testing and regular field inspections are verifying water quality and the integrity of distribution infrastructure. These measures aim to maintain public health standards.
Conservation and District Cooling Enhancements
KAHRAMAA is actively promoting conservation efforts throughout the event by equipping stadiums with electric vehicle charging units. Energy efficiency audits of lighting, air conditioning, and water systems within these venues are informing plans to minimize waste and maximize the efficient use of resources. The Corporation is also launching awareness campaigns to encourage responsible consumption among fans and attendees.
District cooling services are providing a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional air conditioning, reducing energy consumption by up to 40%. KAHRAMAA has recently enacted Law No. (19) of 2024, which is designed to regulate and improve these services, affirming the sector’s commitment to the tournament and long-term sustainability. The advanced technologies used in these systems contribute to lowering carbon emissions and supporting Qatar’s environmental goals.
Expanding Renewable Energy Capacity
Qatar’s commitment to renewable energy is showcased through the operation of the Al Kharsaah, Ras Laffan, and Mesaieed solar power plants. These facilities significantly reduce the reliance on gas-fired power generation. The upcoming Dukhan solar power plant, expected to be completed by 2030, will further increase Qatar’s renewable energy capacity, reaching a projected 2000 MW. KAHRAMAA is monitoring the performance of solar systems serving sports facilities and integrating their output into the national grid.
KAHRAMAA’s National Renewable Energy Strategy seeks to achieve 18% of the nation’s total electricity production from renewable sources by 2030, spurred on by initiatives like the “BeSolar” program, which allows residential and commercial solar systems to connect to the grid. This multifaceted approach demonstrates a commitment to a greener future alongside hosting international events.
Looking ahead, KAHRAMAA will continue to refine and test its operational plans in the months leading up to the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025. Further data analysis derived from existing infrastructure and the newly implemented systems will be crucial. While the current preparations are extensive, ongoing monitoring of energy demand and potential disruptions will be key to ensuring a seamless and sustainable tournament experience. The corporation will focus on optimizing grid performance and water distribution based on real-time conditions.
