As of 2022, Bahrain's electricity generation is almost entirely reliant on fossil fuels, with nearly all of it coming from gas. The country shows a stark dependency on fossil energy, with low-carbon sources contributing close to none to its electricity mix. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels not only contributes to climate change but also makes the country vulnerable to fluctuations in global gas prices and supplies. Transitioning to a mix that includes low-carbon sources can enhance energy security and reduce environmental impacts.
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Bahrain can look to examples from other countries that have successfully integrated sustainable energy into their grids. For instance, France and Slovakia have effectively utilized nuclear energy, generating more than half of their electricity through this green source, showing Bahrain a proven path to significantly cut emissions while ensuring a steady power supply. Additionally, Bahrain could explore solar energy, akin to the UAE, which has captured 20% of its electricity from clean sources, a feasible option given Bahrain's solar potential. Learning from these countries, Bahrain can focus on investing in nuclear and solar infrastructure to diversify and green its electricity supply.
Historically, Bahrain's contribution to low-carbon electricity has been stagnant, with no notable changes in solar energy generation from 2016 to 2022. This lack of advancement signifies missed opportunities for green energy integration, especially in solar, which is both abundant and suitable for the region’s climate. For Bahrain's electricity landscape to become more sustainable, there is an urgent need to break from historical trends and prioritize the development of clean energy projects. By embracing these technologies, Bahrain can shift toward a more resilient and environmentally friendly electricity generation future.