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The Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Charging Infrastructure project in Bahrain focuses on incorporating clean technologies into transportation by promoting green infrastructure, and efficient energy management, sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity, while emphasizing public education and awareness to promote EV adoption.
Its vision is “accelerating Bahrain’s transition to sustainable mobility”.
The project aligns with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 , the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, and national sustainability goals and efforts to combat climate change. Driven by increasing awareness and supportive government policies, it seeks to revolutionize/transform Bahrain’s transportation sector by promoting widespread adoption of EVs and establishing a robust EV charging infrastructure.
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It also aims at enhancing energy security, adopting EVs reduces carbon emissions by up to 22% in the short term, as climate change concerns and pollution drive increasing demand for zero-emission transportation.
To implement this vision, a comprehensive master plan was proposed, outlining strategic policies, including subsidies for EV purchases, tax incentives, and grants for developing charging infrastructure. The plan targets key urban centers and major highways, integrating charging stations in residential neighborhoods, developing infrastructure along key transit routes for long-distance travel, placing charging stations in public spaces like shopping malls and parks, and establishing EV maintenance and service centers to support the growing market.
The master plan’s goals will be achieved through expanding the charging station network to ensure widespread coverage, offering financial incentives for EV purchases and infrastructure investments, collaborating with private sector stakeholders to leverage expertise and resources, and conducting public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the benefits of EVs.
The project benefits a diverse audience by providing private EV owners with convenient charging facilities, enhancing electric vehicle ownership. Logistics and delivery companies transitioning to electric fleets gain from expanded infrastructure, enabling efficient operations while reducing costs and emissions. Businesses and corporate offices can offer charging facilities, promoting sustainability and social responsibility. Additionally, the project improves air quality and reduces noise pollution, benefiting residents and tourists alike. Local businesses gain investment opportunities in the growing EV market, while the Government of Bahrain achieves national sustainability and environmental goals.
Key stakeholders in the project encompass a wide range of governmental and private entities. The Transportation and Telecommunications Ministry (MTT) introduced emissions-free electric scooters and bikes. The Ministry of Electricity and Water Affairs (MEWA) and ABB Co. are supplying five 360-kilowatt charging stations. Besides, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) is involved in regulating the import, sale, and circulation of electric cars and their chargers in local markets. The private sector, including EV manufacturers, charging infrastructure providers, and local businesses, are instrumental in driving innovation and investment. Additionally, Bahrain National Insurance (BNI) introduced the first EV-specific motor insurance policy.
The first charging station for electric cars was opened in April 2021 at the Atrium Mall in Saar, with other implementations expected to begin in 2025, to occur in multiple phases:
1. 2025-2027: Establishing pilot charging stations in key urban centers and highways.
2. 2027-2030: Expanding the charging network to residential areas and public spaces.
3. 2030 onwards: Deploying and improving the EV infrastructure network.
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