National Energy Efficiency Plan discussed

Electricity and Water Affairs Minister, Dr Abdulhussain Mirza chaired the 13th meeting of the Follow-up Committee of the National Renewable Energy Plan and the National Energy Efficiency Plan.  Members of the committee composed of senior officials in several ministries and government agencies attended.

The minister thanked and appreciated the wise leadership and the government for their unlimited support and interest in promoting the use of clean energy and seeking to improve energy efficiency for achieving comprehensive sustainable development, in co-operation with the Sustainable Energy Centre of the Electricity and Water Authority. Tamkeen is providing financial support to contractors to implement renewable energy projects in Bahrain and enabling them to install solar systems for individuals at their homes.

The minister appreciated the unprecedented cooperation of Tamkeen, led by Chief Executive Officer Dr Ibrahim Janahi, and their quick response to the initiative and contribute to achieving the national goals.  In addition, the meeting discussed the developments of the tender project for the installation of solar energy systems on eight public schools consisting of 20 buildings with a total capacity of three megawatts, in co-operation with the Ministry of Education.

This tender is expected to be issued before the end of this year. The Green Building Guide, which was issued by a ministerial decree yesterday and published in the Official Gazette, aims to rationalise energy consumption in buildings and facilities, saving 20 per cent to 30pc of electricity and conserving natural resources. It will replace the existing air conditioning systems in these facilities and achieve  savings in the consumption of electrical energy.

At the request of the minister, each member provided an update on the timeline and detailed plan for the implementation of the initiatives and programmes entrusted to them in the National Energy Efficiency Plan and the National Renewable Energy Plan. The committee praised the achievements of the national plans and thanked the members of the national committee to follow up their implementation and for their active participation as well as to provide detailed reports and constructive suggestions. It was agreed to hold the next meeting two months later.