Bahrain appoints advisors for first utility-scale solar power project
Bahrain has embarked on a significant step towards a sustainable energy future with the announcement of its first major solar power project in the utility sector. KPMG, WSP and Trowers & Hamlins have been appointed as advisors.
The 150 megawatt (MW) solar facility, located in the southern region near Bilaj Al Jazayer, will span approximately 1.2 square kilometres. Upon its expected completion in the third quarter of 2027, the project is set to generate enough electricity to power over 6,000 homes while cutting over 100,000 tonnes of carbon emissions, reinforcing Bahrain’s environmental sustainability goals and energy resilience.
The initiative is a cornerstone of Bahrain’s National Renewable Energy Plan (NREAP), which aims to increase the share of clean energy in Bahrain’s energy mix to 20% by 2035. Bahrain’s NREAP identifies feasible solar, wind, and biogas renewable energy options, establishing national renewable energy targets of 5% of peak capacity by 2025 and 10% by 2035.
According to Anu Chaudhary, Partner and Global Head of ESG Consulting at Uniqus, this project is expected to generate approximately 480 GWh of clean power annually and reduce CO2 emissions by 392,000 tonnes. “Beyond helping the environment, this move can also reduce reliance on fuel price swings, allow more hydrocarbons to be exported, and strengthen energy security as demand grows with urban and industrial development,” she said.
Meet the advisors
The major utility-scale power plant will be developed in collaboration with the private sector, with tendering for the developers planned for Q4 2025. In the run-up to the tendering process, Bahrain’s Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) this month launched a Global Market Sounding exercise to engage with local and international and stakeholders.
A consortium of specialised firms has been appointed to provide advisory services throughout the project lifecycle – starting from feasibility studies, planning, and technical oversight through to commercial operation. This includes KPMG as financial advisor, WSP as technical advisor and Trowers & Hamlins as legal advisor.
“This project highlights the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in achieving Bahrain’s renewable energy goals,” commented Chaudhary. “EWA’s efforts to attract private investment in energy generation demonstrate a shift toward more diverse funding and management approaches.”
