Bahrain’s Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) has officially laid the foundation stone for the Al Dur Solar Power Plant, a major clean energy project featuring 135,000 solar panels. The ceremony was attended by Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister.
The Al Dur project, slated for completion by the third quarter of next year, is part of EWA’s strategic initiatives supporting Bahrain’s energy transition. Shaikh Khalid highlighted the project’s role in enhancing the energy sector by providing new renewable generation capacity and advancing the kingdom’s goal of achieving a 20% renewable energy share in the national energy mix by 2035, in line with the National Renewable Energy Plan.
“The project strengthens energy security, diversifies energy sources, encourages investment, and creates employment opportunities in the renewable energy sector,” he said.
Shaikh Khalid emphasized that establishing Al Dur as one of Bahrain’s large-scale solar power plants, connected directly to the national electricity grid, reflects the kingdom’s commitment to centralized generation projects that contribute substantial capacity to meet current and future electricity needs.
He also noted that Bahrain continues to implement strategic, high-quality projects across key infrastructure sectors, enhancing economic competitiveness, resource sustainability, and service efficiency. This aligns with the broader development objectives led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Acknowledging the role of private sector institutions alongside government efforts, Shaikh Khalid stressed the importance of collaboration in achieving national renewable energy goals. “Investing in advanced technologies is essential for modern infrastructure, ensuring energy supply security, service continuity, and the integration of solar solutions into the electricity grid, while generating economic and environmental benefits,” he said, highlighting alignment with the Government Programme 2023–2026.
EWA President Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed underlined the significance of continued coordination among government entities to ensure the efficient completion of strategic projects. He praised the leadership’s ongoing support, which has enabled EWA to implement its projects effectively, enhancing the reliability and sustainability of services.
“The Al Dur Solar Power Plant is part of a broader package of initiatives, including both distributed and large-scale solar energy projects. These efforts reduce reliance on conventional fuels, support national emission reduction targets, and contribute to Bahrain’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060,” Kamal bin Ahmed added.
