The Minister of Electricity and Water Affairs, Yasser Humaidan, announced that the Electricity
and Water Authority (EWA) is conducting continuous studies to evaluate the adoption of
modular small nuclear reactors. These evaluations are aligned with global standards and
feasibility studies.
Responding to a parliamentary question by MP Dr. Maryam Al-Dhaen, Humaidan stated that
EWA is committed to adopting best practices and advanced digital technologies in renewable
energy. He emphasized that the authority employs the latest renewable energy applications in
its projects, adhering to international standards and specifications.
The minister highlighted that Bahrain’s installed capacity from distributed renewable energy
projects has reached approximately 70 megawatts, covering residential, commercial, and
industrial sectors. He added that several projects are under development by both public and
private sectors. Among these is the EWA’s project to expand the Al-Dur Renewable Energy
Plant, which is currently under construction and expected to add nearly 100 megawatts. This
expansion will double Bahrain’s renewable energy capacity to 170 megawatts.
Humaidan also pointed out challenges facing Bahrain in expanding renewable energy,
including the need for extensive land areas for large-scale photovoltaic solar systems and wind
farms. However, he reassured that EWA is actively identifying open spaces suitable for
installing utility-scale photovoltaic energy farms.
Regarding regulations for renewable energy adoption by individuals and organizations, the
minister outlined several mandatory requirements, including technical standards for
photovoltaic systems connected to the distribution grid, approved photovoltaic materials, and a
list of certified contractors and consultants.
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