Bahrain cuts solar installation times from a month to four days

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain has trimmed solar installation wait times from nearly a month to just four days, introduced easier loans, and strengthened local industry backing.

This was according to a Ministry of Electricity and Water Affairs (MEWA) statement issued in response to parliamentary questions from Shura Council member Talal Al Mannai.

The measures are part of Bahrain’s push towards carbon neutrality by 2060, as laid out in the Government Action Plan 2023-2026.

MEWA, working with the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA), has focused its public awareness efforts on schools, universities, and industry events.

Through workshops, seminars, and conferences, officials have explained the environmental and financial benefits of solar energy.

Interest

These efforts have spurred interest, pushing the country’s total installed solar capacity to around 70 megawatts.

The introduction of the ‘Benayat’ system and full digitalisation of service requests has reduced installation wait times from nearly a month to just four days, according to the Ministry.

Feasibility studies are also carried out to assist government bodies in assessing solar project potential and determining installation capacity.

Ministerial Decision No. (2) of 2017 allows households and businesses to set up solar energy systems, covering their electricity needs and sending any surplus back to the national grid.

Excess electricity

Developers and investors can also take advantage of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), which let them sell excess electricity while cutting energy bills and reducing carbon emissions.

To make solar energy more affordable, MEWA has teamed up with several local banks to offer low-interest loans for solar system installations.