Royal University for Women & Positive Zero Partner on Solar Carport

The Royal University for Women (RUW) and Positive Zero have forged a pioneering alliance to implement a solar carport project on campus. This initiative is facilitated through SirajPower, Positive Zero's arm specializing in distributed generation, marking a significant step in Bahrain's clean energy sector.

Solar Carport Project Details

Situated in Riffa, Bahrain, the solar carport project at RUW is designed to generate up to 3.75MWp of power. Positive Zero has committed to a comprehensive 30-year lease agreement encompassing the design, supply, installation, operation, and maintenance of the solar infrastructure. Once operational, it is projected to produce 6.6 GWh of clean energy annually, offsetting 4,500 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year, equivalent to planting 75,000 trees.

Inauguration and Key Stakeholders

The partnership was inaugurated at the RUW campus in the presence of distinguished dignitaries. Key attendees included His Excellency Yasser bin Ibrahim Humaidan, Minister of Electricity and Water Affairs; Ali Nematallah Al Nimaa, Vice President of the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA); Dr. Farzana Abdullah Al-Maraghi, Assistant Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council; and Professor Riyad Yousef Hamzah, President of the University. The agreement was signed by Essa bin Mohammed Najibi from RUW and Mohammed Abdulghaffar Hussain from Positive Zero.

Speaking at the project’s inauguration, His Excellency Yasser bin Ibrahim Humaidan, Minister of Electricity and Water said: “The General Directorate of Energy Efficiency at the Ministry is keen to provide the technical advice and support necessary to contribute to the implementation of sustainable energy transition plans, and to adopt investment initiatives in renewable energy sources to achieve national goals, to reduce carbon emissions, and achieving the goal of reaching net zero by 2060, in line with the Kingdom's international commitments.”

Mohammed Abdulghaffar Hussain, Co-Founder and Chairman of Positive Zero, said: “Our partnership with the Royal University for Women is a testament to the need for solar solutions across the region and in all sectors, including education. This initiative supports our mission to revolutionize the Middle East’s energy landscape and serve as a blueprint for other organizations seeking clean alternatives. We are confident that this collaboration with the Royal University for Women will further inspire advancements in environmental responsibility and energy efficiency, motivating the next generation of young sustainability leaders in Bahrain and beyond to drive positive change.”

Environmental Impact and Community Benefits

Professor Riyad Yousef Hamzah, President of the Royal University for Women, said: “Our collaboration with Positive Zero exemplifies our steadfast commitment to a sustainable future. Adopting sustainable energy sources is not just an option, but a responsibility and a strong indicator of our commitment to adopting environmental sustainability initiatives and contributing to the smart and green energy transition. The solar installation project is a tangible embodiment of our commitment to protecting the environment and preserving energy sources and is an educational tool that allows our students to witness the direct impact of sustainable initiatives and inspires them to seek innovative solutions in their lives and careers.”

Professor Hamzah also thanked His Excellency Yasser bin Ibrahim Humaidan, Minister of Water and Electricity Affairs, and Ali Nematallah Al Nimaa, Vice President of the Water and Electricity Authority (EWA), for their unwavering support during the solar energy project's implementation as well as their admirable efforts to develop renewable energy projects throughout the kingdom that are in line with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and the nation's wise leadership.

Upon completion, the solar carport project at RUW will generate enough electricity to power over 550 homes annually. This initiative underscores RUW and Positive Zero's commitment to supporting Bahrain's ambitious clean energy goals, including achieving net zero emissions by 2060 and increasing renewable energy to 20% of the energy mix by 2035. Sunergy Solar, a renowned solar solutions provider, is collaborating on the project, handling the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) aspects.