Bahrain Opens Bids for 100MW Solar Project
The Kingdom of Bahrain has initiated the bidding process for a substantial new renewable energy initiative—the development of a 100MW solar project. This initiative is framed as a public-private partnership, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s renewable energy landscape.
Bahrain’s Solar Energy Ambition
The Electricity & Water Authority (EWA) of Bahrain has outlined the terms for potential developers. The winning bidder will undertake the project’s full lifecycle over a span of 25 years. This includes responsibilities for decommissioning and site restoration following the project’s operational phase.
Tender Requirements for Developers
To be considered for this project, bidders must meet specific eligibility criteria established by the EWA. The requirements are as follows:
- Developers must show a successful track record either as a developer or as an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor.
- Eligible bidders need experience in three photovoltaic (PV) projects worldwide with a combined capacity of 100MW or two projects in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) with a total of 70MW.
- Secured financing of at least $150 million for three projects over the last decade is necessary.
- Individual bidders must have a minimum net worth of $50 million.
- For consortium bids, the leading company must possess at least 15% equity ownership in the project and have a personal net worth of at least $20 million.
The initial announcement for this project was made in August 2023, originally proposing a larger capacity of 150MW. However, the recent tender clarifies that the project will have a capacity of at least 100MW AC.
Current Status of Renewable Energy in Bahrain
The role of renewable energy in Bahrain is currently minimal. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), solar energy contributed only 0.3% to the country’s electricity generation in 2023, with natural gas being the predominant source. Bahrain has set an ambitious target to fulfill 20% of its electricity needs through renewable energy by 2035.
Key Projects on the Horizon
The Bilaj Al Jazayer solar facility is a crucial part of Bahrain’s strategy to increase renewable energy production. This project follows the Sakhir solar project, which was first announced in 2023. The Sakhir plant initially aimed for a capacity of 72MW but faced a reduction to 44MW after receiving four competing bids earlier this year.
As Bahrain moves forward with the 100MW solar project, it underlines the nation’s commitment to diversifying its energy resources and leveraging solar power for sustainable development.
