A call for balanced energy strategy to ensure a sustainable future has been made by a group of MPs.
Five Strategic Thinking Bloc members, led by Dr Mariam Al Dhaen, are proposing a balance between conventional and renewable energy sources, calling it one of the most pressing global challenges of the modern era.
Dr Al Dhaen highlighted the growing demand for energy on the one hand, and the urgent need to protect the environment and achieve sustainability, on the other.
Speaking on the future of energy policy, she called for strategic thinking that ensures both the responsible exploitation of natural resources and a gradual transition toward clean, low-emission energy alternatives.
The proposal has been now referred to Parliament’s public utilities and environment affairs committee, which has been tasked to draft a national vision for sustainability.
The vision as suggested has to accelerate the shift towards a diversified and environmentally responsible energy sector.
“The current stage demands strategic thinking that balances the use of natural resources with the transformation toward clean, low-carbon energy sources,” said Dr Al Dhaen.
She underlined the strong interconnection between energy, climate and sustainability, stating that the distinction between economic development and environmental preservation can no longer be maintained.
“There is no longer a separation between economic growth and environmental preservation,” she explained.
“Future energy pathways must be built on innovation, technology and long-term planning, while also considering regional and international challenges related to energy security and climate change.”
She also highlighted the importance of international co-operation and the role of global conferences and forums in fostering dialogue, exchanging perspectives and sharing expertise among nations and institutions.
According to her, such platforms are essential to building both national and international capacity in facing environmental challenges and driving energy transition efforts.
Dr Al Dhaen praised Bahrain’s leadership in promoting sustainable energy initiatives, expressing her appreciation for the work of Oil and Environment Minister Dr Mohammed Bin Daina.
“Bahrain has taken a leading role in supporting energy sustainability,” she said.
“I commend the efforts of Dr Bin Daina in spearheading environmental initiatives and leading national efforts to create a genuine balance between development and environmental protection.”
Dr Al Dhaen also reaffirmed her personal commitment to this issue, describing it as one of her key parliamentary priorities.
She noted that she has submitted a number of parliamentary questions related to the use of advanced technologies in the energy sector, including the potential applications of small modular nuclear reactors and artificial intelligence.
These efforts, she explained, are part of her broader vision to reduce dependence on conventional energy and safeguard resources for future generations.
In addition, she has put forward a range of parliamentary proposals aimed at achieving sustainable resource management and environmental protection.
“Raising public awareness and promoting a culture of sustainable energy is essential,” she said.
“This is a national responsibility and a moral obligation to future generations.”
Dr Al Dhaen also welcomed the positive response from Bapco Energies, Bahrain’s integrated energy company, to invest in innovative solutions and supporting the clean energy transition as earlier proposed by MPs.
“The response from Bapco Energies reflects a constructive spirit of co-operation between the legislative and executive branches, and with national institutions,” she noted.
“Their commitment to innovation and clean energy reinforces Bahrain’s strategic energy goals.”
Dr Al Dhaen affirmed Bahrain’s continued commitment to active participation in global efforts for a sustainable energy future.
“Through its policies, initiatives and dedication to hosting specialised forums, Bahrain continues to demonstrate its belief in building an integrated energy system that meets the needs of the present and aspirations of future generations,” she said.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh