MP calls for review after 6,640 power cuts

A Parliamnet memeber has urged a review of electricity disconnection policies after 6,640 Bahraini residential accounts were cut off for non-payment, according to figures presented to Parliament.

MP Hassan Ebrahim said the data, provided in a written response by the Electricity and Water Affairs Ministry, showed a wider issue in how overdue bills are handled before supply is disconnected.

According to the ministry, 15,554 electricity accounts across all categories were disconnected between November 2025 and February 2026 due to unpaid bills.

The MP also questioned the effectiveness of current warning systems and payment arrangements, noting that the authority issues up to six notices and allows 53 days before disconnection. Despite this, arrears and disconnections remain high, he said.

According to ministry figures, overdue electricity and water bills totalled BD84.01 million, with Bahraini households accounting for a significant share.

The ministry said electricity production, transmission and distribution cost BD550.8 million in 2024, with government support covering around 32 per cent of the total cost.

MP, Ebrahim called for faster rollout of energy-saving initiatives and renewable energy programmes, particularly ahead of peak summer demand.