Work has started on Bahrain’s first solar power plant to generate electricity, with a planned production capacity of up to 150 megawatts, the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) announced yesterday.
The project is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2027, and is located near Bilaj Al Jazayer, covering a total area of approximately 1.2 square kilometres.
“The project is among the most strategic initiatives led by the authority, reflecting its commitment to building a sustainable energy ecosystem,” EWA president Kamal Ahmed said in a statement.
He added that by strengthening partnerships with the private sector, the project aims to scale up renewable energy capacity, reinforce energy security and support the infrastructure required for continued urban and economic development.
The power plant will use the latest advancements in solar energy technologies to optimise output and efficiency.
This initiative is a cornerstone of the kingdom’s National Renewable Energy Plan, which aims to raise the share of clean energy to 20 per cent of Bahrain’s energy mix by 2035.
Once operational, the plant is expected to generate electricity sufficient to meet the needs of approximately 6,300 homes and will contribute to an annual reduction of more than 100,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.
It will be developed in partnership with the private sector, as part of national initiatives to shift towards renewable energy sources and achieve Bahrain’s target of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2060.
To advance the development process, EWA will launch a global market sounding exercise on August 14 to engage with local and international developers and stakeholders.
This will present the project’s technical and commercial framework and ensure broad engagement in the competitive tender process.
The tender is scheduled to be issued in the fourth quarter of this year, with commercial operations expected to begin in the third quarter of 2027.
Interested entities and developers have been invited to participate in the market sounding process and play an active role in shaping the future of clean energy in Bahrain.
Expressions of interest may be submitted via email to project@ewa.bh.
Specialised firms have been appointed to provide advisory services throughout the project lifecycle, including feasibility studies, planning and technical oversight through to commercial operation.
The consortium includes KPMG Fakhro as financial adviser, WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff as technical adviser and Trowers & Hamlins as legal adviser.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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