Al Mubarak announcing new projects

Bahrain’s Electricity and Water Affairs Minister Wael Al Mubarak said, in a written reply to a question by Shura Council member Sabah Al Dossary, that the target to produce six per cent of total power through green energy by 2025 is on track.

Amongst the projects is a new photoelectric energy power plant in Askar, expanding solar power initiatives in Awali and installing solar panels in homes, mosques and ma’atams.

“A 100-kilowatt photoelectric power plant in Askar, which is the biggest solar energy project of its type in the country’s history, is set to produce 100kW whenever completed,” said Al Mubarak.

“Plans are underway to expand an existing unit in Awali that sees 5kW of solar power produced. Tatweer Petroleum has also increased the capacity of its solar power unit from one to five kilowatts.

“The Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) is currently working on its own project to produce five kilowatts from solar and wind energy, while installing panels on water tanks, and pumping and distribution connections besides replacing 10,679 street lights with energy-saving LEDs and stopping the use of conventional lights in new projects.

He added that 216 people have applied to connect their energy grids with the government’s network.

“We have connected the accounts of 87 people with main network and we receive 25 megawatts in total, but in reality only benefit from 10 megawatts.

“There is also an initiative to connect Bahrain’s ma’atams and mosques with a 30kW target and we have started with Bin Shabib Ma’tam in Sehla.”

Al Mubarak said that conserving electricity and water topped the government’s priorities.

“We have introduced regulations for the use more environmental-friendly electrical and electronic appliances in co-operation with the Industry, Commerce and Tourism Ministry, besides ensuring proper heat insulators are installed in co-ordination with the Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry.

“There are 48 accredited renewable energy contractors and 92 consultants.”