Doha, Qatar: University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Siemens in Qatar to establish a Smart Grid Living Lab and advance collaboration in, energy innovation, applied research, and workforce development.
The partnership marks a significant step toward strengthening Qatar’s capabilities in smart energy systems by creating a collaborative environment where students, faculty, researchers, and industry experts can develop, test, and validate next-generation technologies and solutions for the energy sector.
At the heart of the collaboration is the development of a Smart Grid Living Lab at UDST. The facility will serve as a practical platform for experiential learning, applied research, innovation, and industry engagement, enabling students to participate directly in the design, implementation, and operation of smart grid technologies. The Living Lab will also support future research projects, technology demonstrations, simulation activities, and pilot initiatives focused on addressing real-world energy challenges.
The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration across several strategic areas. Siemens will contribute industry expertise through guest lectures, workshops, seminars, and technical knowledge-sharing sessions covering smart grids, grid automation, energy management systems, and emerging smart infrastructure technologies. The company will also support curriculum enhancement efforts to ensure students gain exposure to the latest industry practices and technological developments.
President of UDST Dr. Salem Al Nuaemi said: "The establishment of the Smart Grid Living Lab represents a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen applied learning and innovation at UDST. We are pleased to collaborate with Siemens to create an environment where students can engage directly with advanced technologies and real-world energy systems while contributing to research and innovation that support Qatar's sustainable development ambitions."
In turn, CEO of Siemens Qatar is Hakan Ozdemir said: "At Siemens, we believe that technology and talent together drive meaningful progress. Through this collaboration with UDST, we are creating an environment where students, researchers, and industry experts can work together to explore the future of intelligent energy systems. By combining the real and digital worlds, we support innovation, develop future-ready talent, and contribute to a more sustainable, resilient, and digital energy future for Qatar."