Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO) and the National Oil & Gas Authority (NOGA) have joined forces with US-based company Petra Solar to build a new 5MW solar energy project in Bahrain.
Using smart grid technology, the project will provide energy to a number of locations in the region, including BAPCO's Awali township and the University of Bahrain.
The Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), which has been closely involved in the development of the project, has assisted Petra Solar in establishing a base in Bahrain.
Dr Shihab Kuran, Petra Solar president and CEO, said solar power and a stable electric grid are critical elements to Bahrain's developing economic and energy security.
"In Awali, we are deploying solar power, plus we are building a wireless smart grid network, which are the building blocks for command and control of smart cities," Kuran added.
Kamal bin Ahmed, Bahrain EDB acting chief executive, said investment in this sort of technology is a key part of the board's plans to create jobs for Bahrainis through sustainable economic growth for the long term.
"Importantly, this investment will not only create jobs directly, but also create benefits for other companies by improving energy efficiency," he added.
