South Korea’s EnergyX To Open R&D Centre in Qatar

South Korea's EnergyX, a global leader in AI-driven energy self-sufficiency solutions for zero-energy buildings (ZEBs), is opening a research and development (R&D) centre in Qatar as it plans a major expansion into the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) region where it plans to invest more than $100mn in the next five years.

"We believe that Qatar is a perfect place for being the centre of R&D," Sean Sunghyun Park, founder and chief executive officer of EnergyX told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the Web Summit Qatar 2025, which concluded on Wednesday.

Renowned for its advanced R&D and innovation ecosystem, Qatar provides an "exceptional" platform for EnergyX to strengthen its research capabilities and unveil cutting-edge technologies for the energy self-sufficient buildings, he said, adding talks are in the advanced stages with the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) regarding the registration and licensing.

EnergyX, a 'sustainable architecture technology company, not only manufactures and installs Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPVs) but also offers AI (artificial intelligence)-driven simulation, software, optimisation, and management of the entire process all the way from architectural design to architectural operations once the building is finished.

BIPV systems seamlessly integrate solar energy generation with functional and aesthetic building components such as façades and rooftops. These systems offer insulation, waterproofing, drainage, fireproofing, and sound absorption capabilities.

AI-powered solutions enabling advanced simulation, analysis, optimisation, and management for ZEB design, construction, and operations. 

These solutions align with ESG or environment, social and governance initiatives; RE100 goals, a global initiative bringing together the world's most influential businesses committed to using 100% renewable electricity in their operations; and international energy efficiency standards, he said.

“Expanding into the GCC marks a significant milestone for EnergyX as we partner with the world’s most forward-thinking regions to advance energy self-sufficiency for buildings,” he said, adding by focusing on Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, it is building partnerships that bring the most advanced building technologies to the world’s most ambitious projects.

The company is scouting for strategic partners and such partnership involves strategic growth for both EnergyX and the countries, he said, adding it seeks to make meaningful contribution to the ICVs (in-country value).

“Each GCC market offers unique opportunities for EnergyX to deliver impactful solutions, from advancing research in Qatar to scaling operations solutions in the UAE and contributing to iconic mega-projects in Saudi Arabia,” according to Jean Jacques Dandrieux, chief executive officer of EnergyX Qatar.

The company, which has manufacturing plants for BIPVs in South Korea, is exploring options on establishing manufacturing base in the GCC and it is yet to decide on the site (whether Qatar, the UAE or Saudi Arabia), according to him.

"Our product, the BIPVs, is not like you manufacture in one place and then export it. 

That doesn't work. In construction, time is money and we need to have the just-in-time production and deliver it on time. So, there is a need to have a manufacturing facility headquarter here in the GCC region," Park said, adding, "We are looking to invest more than $100mn (in the GCC) in the next five years."