*** Bahrain’s Energy Roadmap: Powering a Cleaner, Smarter Future | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Bahrain’s Energy Roadmap: Powering a Cleaner, Smarter Future

Bahrain is charting a clear course toward a sustainable, resilient, and future-ready energy system. With ambitious renewable energy targets, modern grid upgrades, and efficiency initiatives, the Kingdom is transforming how electricity is generated, transmitted, and consumed, ensuring that growth and sustainability go hand in hand.

A Century of Progress

Bahrain’s electricity journey began in 1930, when Manama became the first Gulf capital to receive power. From the early Ras Ruman station to today’s advanced facilities, the Kingdom has steadily modernized its grid to meet the demands of urbanization, industrial growth, and national development. The inauguration of the 400 kV Al Jasra electricity transmission station, the largest in the Kingdom, marks the latest milestone. This state-of-the-art station strengthens the grid, increases operational capacity, and improves connectivity with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) electricity network, enabling efficient energy exchange across the region.

Expanding Renewable Energy

Solar energy sits at the core of Bahrain’s renewable ambitions. The Kingdom aims to achieve a 20% share of renewable energy in electricity generation by 2035, in line with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and the national commitment to net-zero emissions by 2060. Large-scale solar farms, rooftop installations on public and private buildings, and innovative floating solar projects are being deployed to maximize output while making efficient use of land.

Modernising the Grid

To integrate renewables and improve reliability, Bahrain has invested in smart grid technology, high-voltage transmission upgrades, and advanced monitoring systems. These enhancements allow the grid to manage variable energy sources, reduce losses, and maintain stability even as electricity demand grows. Projects like Al Jasra exemplify how infrastructure modernization is critical for a sustainable energy future.

Efficiency and Sustainability

Reducing energy consumption is equally important. National programs encourage households, businesses, and public institutions to adopt energy-saving practices, lower emissions, and optimize resource use. By pairing efficiency initiatives with renewable energy and a modern grid, Bahrain is creating a balanced, sustainable energy ecosystem.

Looking Ahead

Bahrain’s energy roadmap is a comprehensive approach to meeting current and future needs. By combining infrastructure upgrades, renewable expansion, efficiency programs, and regional cooperation, the Kingdom is building a power system that is reliable, resilient, and environmentally responsible. These efforts not only support economic growth but also position Bahrain as a leader in the Gulf for sustainable energy development.

From its early electricity stations to the groundbreaking Al Jasra project, Bahrain is lighting the way toward a cleaner, smarter, and greener energy future, one that will serve the Kingdom for decades to come.