Plans underway to convert Askar waste landfill to solar power plant

TDT | Manama     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain Water and Electricity Minister Yasser Humaidan has announced plans to convert the waste landfill in the Askar area into a 100 MW standalone solar power plant through a public-private partnership.

In response to an inquiry submitted by Shura Council member Mohammed Al Khuzaie, Humaidan stated that the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) is working to increase the share of renewable energy in total power generation. However, he highlighted that the limited availability of vast empty lands hampers greater reliance on solar power.

Humaidan affirmed Bahrain’s focus on renewables due to their pivotal role in sustainable development and economic growth, as outlined in the Bahrain Vision 2030 and the Carbon Neutrality Strategy by 2060.

Initiatives, policies

He mentioned that EWA has developed initiatives and policies through various projects to achieve the target of 5% renewables by 2025 and 20% by 2035. These include the establishment of a 3 MW solar and 2 MW wind-powered plant, as well as the implementation of a net metering scheme allowing homes to sell excess solar power to the grid to receive discounted bills.

The minister also noted the successful installation of solar panels at water facilities such as the Seef Pumping and Distribution Stations. Additionally, EWA is in the process of establishing a 90-100 MW solar complex in the Al Dur area.”