Chevron devotes $20M to renewable energy

SAN RAMON, Calif., Feb. 18 (UPI) -- U.S. supermajor Chevron announced a $20 million plan to develop a technology center in Qatar devoted to renewable energy and efficient technology.

Chevron issued a statement on its Web site saying the five-year plan envisions a partnership with the Qatar Science and Technology Park in Doha to work toward renewable energy and strategies to develop efficient technology for the regional climate.

"The center, expected to open in late 2009, also anticipates conducting research in the development and application of renewable power, such as solar, and developing and training Qatari engineers, scientists and students to build expertise and capabilities within the country," Chevron said.

Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah, Qatari oil and energy minister and deputy prime minister, said the development was a mutually beneficial relationship.

"Establishment of this center greatly enhances our ability to utilize Chevron's expertise and leadership in the area of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies in the future, and for training Qatari engineers and scientists," he said.