Bahrain signs deal to develop Kingdom's electric future

TDT | Manama                                                

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com     

Electric vehicles are the future and Bahrain affirmed this strategy yet again by signing a deal with a top international agency to develop an electric vehicle strategy, voicing a strong commitment to reducing overall fossil fuel dependency.

Minister of Electricity and Water Affairs, H E Yasser bin Ibrahim Humaidan said the deal with Deloitte & Touche will ensure this strategy as well as the fast and widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).

Deloitte is tasked with developing a multi-pronged approach for the Kingdom to drive its EV penetration in a controlled and sustainable way.

The aim is to increase the deployment of renewable energy (solar) as an upstream source of electricity, reduce overall fossil fuel dependency and consumption, reduce pollution, and reduce the cost of ownership for all stakeholders; government, industries, and citizens.

Humaidan said the strategy further brings into the spotlight Bahrain’s net zero and carbon emissions targets, alongside its battle against the greenhouse effect and climate change.

Bahrain targets the reduction of carbon emissions by 30% through decarbonization and energy efficiency initiatives, in addition to reaching Net Zero by 2060.

“This agreement serves to strengthen Bahrain’s efforts in this direction,” the minister said, pointing to the compatibility of its EV plan with that of GCC countries.

Humaidan pointed out that Bahrain will establish the necessary infrastructure for electric cars by providing charging stations in several strategic locations, in addition to setting policies and regulations.

Terming the energy sector as a key contributor to the comprehensive development march led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the minister also affirmed the continuous follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in achieving the sustainable development goals for 2030.

The move comes on the heels of the announcement of a deal by Gauss Auto Bahrain to set up Bahrain’s first electric car factory to produce a range of vehicles, including two- and three-wheel electric tricycles and passenger vehicles.