When oil was first discovered, the world witnessed a social transition. Oil was not only a source of providing energy to industries but it was an important socio-cultural marker of modernity. Researchers and artists in The Petrocultures Research Group (PRG) in their work ‘After Oil’ discuss that energy transition is not just a phenomenon that can be solved by technology or supply-side policies but remains a very sociological and anthropological phenomenon. For example, during the era of petromodernity, the discovery of oil had a huge impact in the way and quality of everyday life. However, in modern times we can see another shift of energy sources. The world is gradually shifting from oil and other fossil fuels to more sustainable energy sources hence, marking yet another energy transition. Similar to oil, this has also marked the beginning of an energy transition impacting the quality and way of life for many, aiming for a more sustainable lifestyle. Yet, sustainability still remains a luxury.
With FIFA 2022 at its doorstep, Qatar has taken this as an opportunity to advance its sustainable development agenda which is mentioned in the Qatar National Vision 2030 as ‘Management of the environment such that there is harmony between economic growth, social development and environmental protection.’ This began the construction of deconstructible stadiums, smart cities, electronic/hybrid public transport systems,etc. Even though these projects mark the country’s transition from oil dependency to sustainable energy sources, oil still remains at the heart of life in Doha with sustainability as a luxury for many. Apart from the buildings in Msheireb and most of Lusail, more than 90% of the electricity in the rest of Doha is generated using fossil fuels. Moreover, housing in Lusail and Msheireb, the two smart cities in Qatar, is relatively upscale and expensive compared to other parts of Doha and Qatar. Thus, making them luxurious and exclusive to people of certain socio-economic backgrounds. This was highlighted in the previous post where workers were forced to evacuate without compensation or housing in Msheireb to make way for the smart and future of life in Doha. Apart from housing, even hotels in these areas are generally upscale, starting from 500 QAR a night, making them much more expensive than those in other parts of the city hence reserving them for certain population demographics.
Apart from housing and hospitality, Qatar boasts an environmentally friendly public transportation system. However, it is not considered the most efficient mode of transportation around the city. With limited access to all parts of the city and extensive bus links, an average 10 minute journey transforms to a 25 minute journey. This makes it quite inefficient for an individual to travel using public transport. Thus, low fuel prices and easy availability of cars makes it easier to drive around rather than depend on public transport. Hence, sustainability is considered a luxury especially since time is a luxury for many. This prompts the question of energy transition from oil to renewable energy facing obstacles or being at an ‘impasse’ as mentioned in the After Oil by the PRG researchers. Thus, sustainability is at the heart of development and macro level projects in Doha but its transition to everyday life of majority in Doha remains an unanswered question.
