News

His Excellency, Eng. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, President of the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA), has announced the commencement of work on Bahrain’s first solar power plant for electricity generation, with a planned production capacity of up to 150 megawatts. The project, which will be developed in partnership with the private sector, forms part of national initiatives to enhance the Kingdom’s reliance on renewable energy sources and contributes to Bahrain’s target of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2060. 

HE Eng. Kamal emphasized that this project is among the most strategic initiatives led by the Authority, reflecting EWA’s commitment to building a sustainable energy ecosystem. 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 solar power plant will be located in the southern region of Bahrain, near Bilaj Al Jazayer, covering a total area of approximately 1.2 square km. The project will utilise the latest advancements in solar energy technologies to optimise output and efficiency. 

To advance the development process, EWA will launch a Global Market Sounding exercise on 14 August to engage with local and international developers and stakeholders. This step aims to 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 September 2025, with commercial operations expected to begin in the third quarter of 2027. 

HE Eng. Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed encouraged all interested entities and developers 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 

A consortium of specialised firms has 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 advisor, WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff as technical advisor, and Trowers & Hamlins as legal advisor. 

This initiative is a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s National Renewable Energy Plan, which aims to raise the share of clean energy to 20% 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 over 100,000 tonnes of carbon emissions—reinforcing Bahrain’s environmental sustainability goals and energy resilience.