NEWS
Minister of Electricity & Water Affairs Patronizes Signing of 72 MW Solar Power Project Agreements
HE the Minister of Electricity and Water Affairs, Yaser bin Ibrahim Humaidan, stated that the signing of agreements for the 72-megawatt solar power project complements the government’s efforts—led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister—to support initiatives addressing climate change challenges. This project effectively contributes to reducing carbon emissions and achieving the goal of carbon neutrality by 2060 in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
During the signing ceremony on Tuesday, Mr. Humaidan said the project is part of the National Renewable Energy Plan’s initiatives and underscores the importance of expanding solar energy use to preserve the environment and ensure resource sustainability.
The Minister added that the 72-megawatt solar power project is among the key development initiatives supporting sustainable economic growth for Bahrain and its citizens, aligning with the Kingdom’s international commitments.
Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, CEO of Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), stated that the project aligns with BIC’s strategy to expand solar energy use. It will enable all buildings and facilities to operate year-round on renewable energy while supporting operations during international, regional, and local events. This initiative reinforces BIC’s commitments with partners to reduce carbon emissions and achieve net-zero targets.
“BIC remains firmly committed to sustainability and has implemented numerous initiatives to reduce energy consumption and minimize our carbon footprint,” he stated. “Thanks to these ongoing efforts, the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2023 achieved recognition as the most sustainable motorsport event ever hosted in the Kingdom of Bahrain.”
Dr. Fuad Mohammed Al-Ansari, President of the University of Bahrain, emphasized the national university’s commitment to promoting sustainability awareness and environmental conservation. He noted that the solar energy project across campus facilities aligns with the university’s sustainable development strategy.
He explained that establishing Bahrain as a sustainable low-carbon economy model represents one of the University of Bahrain’s highest priorities. The institution focuses on capacity building, promoting research and innovation in sustainable energy, identifying renewable energy diversification opportunities, and strengthening confidence in solar energy as a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
In this regard, he highlighted the university’s recent launch of the Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Transition Systems – the first program of its kind in Bahrain – which focuses on transitioning the energy sector from fossil fuel-based systems (including oil, natural gas, and coal) to low-carbon alternatives.
For his part, Dr. Nasser Qaedi, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), stated that the solar energy project at Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB) aligns with the Kingdom’s commitment to adopting renewable energy and advancing clean energy solutions. He emphasized that the project will significantly reduce traditional energy consumption and support environmental conservation, bolstering Bahrain’s sustainable development initiatives and ensuring infrastructure sustainability in line with global best practices.
Dr. Qaedi emphasized that EWB’s distinctive architectural design incorporates multiple eco-friendly features, marking a significant advancement in Bahrain’s renewable energy expansion. This initiative supports national objectives of energy conservation, efficient usage, and green policy implementation. He noted that the center will further strengthen its global reputation as an eco-conscious facility utilizing cutting-edge clean energy solutions, positioning it as a premier sustainable venue for major regional and international events.
Mr. Shane Chalmers, CEO of Al Dana Amphitheatre, expressed pride in the progress made toward expanding renewable energy usage. He highlighted that the newly signed solar panel installation agreement will advance solar energy adoption at the venue, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable operations.
He stated that the solar panel installation marks a significant advancement, ensuring sustainability for the theater—the first of its kind in the region. He emphasized that solar energy offers an eco-friendly solution, serving as an ideal option to support decarbonization through sustainable energy while reducing overall energy costs.
