Bahrain has announced plans for what it describes as the world’s largest single-site rooftop solar power plant.
The 123-megawatt-peak (MWp) project is being developed through a partnership between Foulath Holding, an industrial group with major steel investments, and Yellow Door Energy, a regional solar developer.
Under a power-purchase agreement, the project will include 50MWp of rooftop installations on a new 262,000 m² stockyard shed, featuring around 77,000 solar panels.
Unveiled during the Gateway Gulf investment forum in Manama, the full development will comprise ten rooftop and four ground-mounted systems, totalling over 189,000 solar panels across 707,000 m².
It is expected to generate 200m kWh of clean energy in its first year and cut carbon emissions by 90,000 metric tons. The scheme supports Foulath’s sustainability goals and Bahrain’s national target of reaching net zero by 2060.
Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, said: “Today, the island nation of Bahrain stands at the forefront of sustainable global innovation. We are incredibly proud of this transformative project – marking the largest rooftop solar plant in the world.
“This milestone not only strengthens our position as a regional leader in clean energy, but embodies our dedication to build a resilient, sustainable future.”
Meshary Al-Judaimi, Chairman of Foulath Holding, added: “Over the past several years, Foulath has invested approximately $250m in various sustainability projects. These investments are a testament to our commitment to responsible operations, environmental stewardship and protecting the health and well-being of our community.”
Sherif ElKholy, Chairman of Yellow Door Energy, said: “This project proves how cost-competitive, clean energy can drive forward industry and set a new global benchmark for decarbonising steel production.”
[Image credit: PRNewsfoto/Bahrain EDB]
