Bahrain uveils National Energy Strategy, accelerates toward Net Zero by 2060

TDT | Manama                                                    

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain took a significant step towards achieving its climate targets by unveiling the National Energy Strategy, a comprehensive roadmap designed to fulfill the Kingdom’s commitments made at COP26.

The ambitious targets include a 30 percent reduction in emissions by 2035, setting the stage for Bahrain’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. Rooted in the twin objectives of decarbonizing Bahrain’s economy and ensuring reliable, affordable access to energy for sustained growth, the National Energy Strategy is a key component of the Kingdom’s Economic Recovery Plan.

The unveiling of this strategy marks a milestone in Bahrain’s commitment to environmental stewardship and aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. In contrast to various approaches adopted by other nations, Bahrain leveraged its small country advantage, opting for a collaborative partnership model between government and industry.

The strategy reflects a genuine collaboration, tapping into the expertise of the private sector to build a comprehensive, cross-sectoral plan that capitalizes on synergies and opportunities for scalable impact.

This collaborative approach ensures a coordinated effort in addressing future challenges related to skills requirements, infrastructure, and other aspects crucial for a successful energy transition. The National Energy Strategy employs three primary levers: optimizing energy demand to reduce intensity and consumption, diversifying the power mix with cleaner energy sources, and deploying carbon abatement technologies to tackle hard-to-abate sectors.

Each lever unfolds a series of initiatives meticulously designed to maximize environmental benefits while minimizing the overall transition cost.

Economic opportunities

Bahrain recognizes economic opportunities within its plan, capitalizing on its size, strategic location, favourable regulatory environment, and agile government.

The Kingdom aims to position itself as a regional hub for the development and testing of innovative clean technologies, contributing to the broader advancements in sustainable practices. Commenting on this groundbreaking strategy, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of Bapco Energies, emphasized the transformative journey towards a more sustainable future.

Under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and with the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the National Energy Strategy guides Bahrain towards achieving energy transition goals and fulfilling net-zero commitments by 2060. The strategy marks a significant leap towards a sustainable and environmentally responsible future for the Kingdom of Bahrain.