Electricity Minister chairs National Committee meeting

Manama, May 20 (BNA): Electricity and Water Affairs Minister Dr. Abdulhussain Mirza chaired the seventh meeting of the National Committee for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.  Members of the committee, comprising of senior officials in several ministries and government bodies, the resident coordinator of the United Nations and the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme were present. The minister thanked the government for its interest in encouraging the use of renewable energy and seeking to improve energy efficiency to achieve comprehensive sustainable development in Bahrain. The meeting reviewed a number of topics on the agenda, including existing air conditioning systems in investment projects and draft regulations that are being prepared to give greater opportunity to central cooling, as well as the initiative to use the roofs of 530 government buildings to install solar energy systems. He said a consultant has been appointed to determine space available on the roofs of government buildings, such as schools, for installing solar energy systems. The first 120 buildings are expected to produce about 25 megawatts of electricity in the first phase of this project, for which a tender will be out in the second half of the year. The committee also reviewed the report of the subcommittee on efficiency standards for electrical appliances, like air conditioners sold in local markets, and other initiatives currently being implemented on large-size air conditioners exceeding 7 tonnes. It also discussed car specifications and future plans to encourage their use. "The goals of sustainable development are equally important for both developed and developing countries until 2030. These goals provide an opportunity to respond to the aspirations of all the peoples of the world for a more prosperous and sustainable energy future," said UN Resident Coordinator Amin al-Sharqawi. The National Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency is in full swing and is one of the most important supporting steps that will enhance Bahrain's steps towards attaining the national renewable energy ratios adopted by the Council of Ministers.  The committee also praised the achievements of the national plans. The minister thanked the members for following up the implementation of national plans for energy efficiency and renewable energy for their effective participation and providing detailed reports and constructive suggestions.