Bahrain has taken another step toward expanding its renewable energy capacity with a new solar power project announced by the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA). The authority has launched an international tender for the Bilaj Al Jazayer Independent Power Project (BAJ Solar IPP), which will involve the development of a utility-scale solar photovoltaic plant with a planned capacity of up to 100 megawatts. The initiative is part of the country’s long-term strategy to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on conventional fuels. Through projects like this, Bahrain aims to increase the share of renewable energy in its overall power mix to 20 percent by 2035.
The solar project will be developed under a build-own-operate (BOO) model, encouraging collaboration between the government and private sector developers. Under this structure, the selected company will be responsible for financing, designing, building, and operating the plant throughout its lifecycle. The agreement will cover a period of 25 years, during which the developer will manage the facility’s operations and maintenance. At the end of the project’s life, the developer will also be responsible for the safe decommissioning of the plant and restoration of the site.
The planned solar facility will be located in the Bilaj Al Jazayer area of Bahrain. According to the project timeline, commercial operations are expected to begin by late September 2027. Once operational, the plant will contribute clean electricity to the national grid and help support the country’s growing energy demand while reducing carbon emissions.
To ensure the project performs reliably in Bahrain’s climate, the Electricity and Water Authority has outlined strict technical requirements. Developers must use proven photovoltaic technologies and high-quality inverters capable of operating efficiently in the region’s harsh environmental conditions, including high temperatures and dust. The project will also include supporting infrastructure such as internal roads and access routes to ensure smooth construction and maintenance activities.
The tender process has been designed to attract experienced international developers with strong financial and technical capabilities. Companies interested in bidding must meet specific eligibility requirements. These include demonstrating a minimum tangible net worth of at least 50 million dollars. In addition, bidders must show that they have successfully secured at least 150 million dollars in limited-recourse financing for large infrastructure projects within the past ten years.
By launching this tender, Bahrain is signaling its commitment to developing a stronger renewable energy sector and encouraging global investment in sustainable projects. The Bilaj Al Jazayer solar project is expected to play an important role in supporting the country’s environmental goals and strengthening long-term energy security.
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