A group of MPs has proposed phasing out conventional electricity transmission in favour of wireless power beaming.
In far-field or radiative techniques, also called power beaming, energy is transferred by beams of electromagnetic radiation, like microwaves or laser beams.
Several countries including the US, the UK, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Germany, France, New Zealand and Denmark have already started using the new technique.
The proposal is being spearhead by Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee chairman and Strategic Thinking Bloc president Ahmed Al Salloom.
“The wireless power transmission could have transformative implications for Bahrain’s infrastructure,” said Mr Al Salloom, who is also a Bahrain Chamber board member and Better Life Society chairman.
“It allows reduced dependency on physical infrastructure as it eliminates the need for extensive electrical wiring and grids,” he added.
“The system will also led to greater energy efficiency by minimising energy loss that typically occurs during long-distance transmission through conventional lines.
“Besides, it enhances urban aesthetics by removing visible wiring and poles, contributing to cleaner and more modern cityscapes.
“Another positivity is flexibility in power delivery that allows energy to be directed to remote or hard-to-reach areas with minimal logistical barriers.”
Mr Al Salloom, who is also Small and Medium Enterprises Development Society chairman, emphasised the importance of a phased approach to ensure a smooth transition.
This will include conducting comprehensive research on the viability, safety and cost-effectiveness of wireless power systems; initiating small-scale trials in select areas to test the technology’s effectiveness and address potential challenges; partnering with international tech firms and academic institutions to develop and implement the required systems’ and educating citizens about the benefits and safety of wireless power to build trust and acceptance.
This ambitious proposal could position Bahrain as a pioneer in the adoption of wireless electricity transmission.
“While the transition will undoubtedly require overcoming technical, financial and regulatory challenges, the potential benefits to infrastructure, energy efficiency and environmental sustainability make it a vision worth pursuing,” said Mr Al Salloom.
“As Bahrain continues to explore innovative solutions to modernise its infrastructure, this bold initiative could set a precedent for the region and beyond, heralding a new era in energy technology.”
However, the transition to wireless electricity transmission faces several technical and logistical hurdles.
“Power beaming technologies may encounter significant energy loss over long distances, affecting efficiency,” said Southern Municipal Council chairman Abdulla Abdullatif.
“The use of electromagnetic waves raises questions about potential radiation exposure and its impact on human health,” he added.
“Retrofitting existing systems to accommodate wireless power technology would require significant investment, with substantial upfront costs for research, development and implementation.”
“Regulatory policies governing the safe use and distribution of wireless power need to be established,” said Mr Abdullatif.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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EXCLUSIVE: MPs propose switch to wireless power beaming
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