Sun-Kissed Savings: How Yellow Door Energy Slashed A Mall's Energy Bill and Contributed to Bahrain's Net Zero by 2060 Target

TDT | Manama                                                        

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain's ambitious renewable energy targets are basking in the sunshine, thanks to innovative solar projects like the one powering the Bahrain Mall. This partnership, spearheaded by Yellow Door Energy (YDE), not only slashes the mall's energy bill significantly but also paints a bright picture for the future of Bahrain's energy landscape. In an interview with The Daily Tribune, Hani Majzoub, senior vice president at YDE, talks about how companies can harness the sun's power and how Bahrain is soaking up the global sustainability spotlight.

1. How do you see the future of renewable energy in Bahrain based on current and existing projects such as the rooftop panels installed for Majid Al Futtaim at The Bahrain Mall?

Bahrain aims to double its renewable energy targets to 20% of the total energy mix by 2035^[1]. The Kingdom has a promising future in solar thanks to year-round sunshine, strong policies, including its Net Zero by 2060 commitment, and a highly skilled workforce. Projects like the rooftop solar system installed at The Bahrain Mall by Yellow Door Energy showcase a successful partnership, with solar meeting nearly 50% of the mall's energy consumption requirements. Through Power purchase agreements (PPAs), companies can save money on energy, without the capital expenses.

2.  In your experience, how much can a company generally save on energy costs by incorporating solar power? 

Through PPAs, companies in Bahrain can save around 20-30% on electricity costs. The actual savings may vary, based on factors such as the building’s total electricity consumption, the space available and the type of solar installation (i.e. carport, ground-mount or rooftop solar).

We take pride in the performance of our systems, leveraging our expertise of over 220 megawatts of awarded solar projects. We recommended reaching out to reputable solar developers for a proper assessment of a building’s solar potential and expected cost savings.

3. As an expert, are there any emerging trends or technologies in the solar energy industry that you believe may shape the future of solar energy solutions?         

Innovation is embedded in our identity, and we continuously monitor the market to bring forth the most efficient solutions for our customers. Some examples include bifacial solar modules, the addition of trackers to increase yield and coupling solar with a battery energy storage system (BESS) to store excess electricity and use it during cloudy days (or nights). Electrifying transport is another area of interest for us, and we are installing EV charging stations with select customers.

Improvements could also come from updating the software. As a data-driven and technology-forward company, we are using artificial intelligence (AI) to perform predictive analytics in order to optimize solar energy production and enhance system efficiency.

4. With Yellow Door Energy having just participated in the COP28 conference that took place in Dubai, how do you feel the conference impacts the region and Bahrain in specific?

Yellow Door Energy's participation in COP28 in Dubai reflects the region’s growing efforts and position on climate change. In a landmark deal, close to 200 countries at COP28 agreed to “transition away from fossil fuels”, signifying a global commitment to sustainability. Bahrain’s Net Zero by 2060 target also highlights this commitment. Moreover, shared insights and collaborative initiatives from COP28 can inspire advancements in renewable energy adoption, policy development and technology integration in Bahrain, contributing to the Kingdom’s sustainable energy transition and broader environmental goals.