RCSI Bahrain Inaugurates 2.72 MW Solar Project

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Medical University of Bahrain or RCSI Bahrain inaugurates a 2.72 MW solar project. The project was inaugurated under the presence of the Minister of Electricity and Water Affairs, His Excellency Mr Yasser bin Ibrahim Humaidan, Former Secretary General of the Higher Education Council as well as Deputy Chairperson of the Higher Education Council Board of Trustees, Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Rana bint Isa bin Duaij Al Khalifa, Muharraq Deputy Governor, His Excellency Brigadier Abdulla Khalifa Al Jeeran, and Head of WHO Representative Office, Dr Tasnim Atatrah. The members of the university’s Board of Governors, Executive Committee, officials, staff members, and students were also present during the launch.

His Excellency Mr Yaser bin Ibrahim Humaidan expressed his admiration for the Medical University of Bahrain’s decision to embrace renewable energy through its investment in a solar energy project, which fulfils approximately 65% of the university’s annual electricity requirements. He emphasized the significance of transitioning to renewable energy initiatives and reducing reliance on conventional energy sources that rely on fossil fuels. This shift is crucial in acknowledging our shared responsibility with the global community to address environmental concerns, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and meet the growing demand for sustainable energy resources.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the Ministry of Electricity and Water Affairs is actively engaging with other educational institutions, encouraging them to swiftly adopt renewable energy projects and avail themselves of the technical assistance offered by the Department of Renewable Energy at the Ministry.

Stephen Harrison-Mirfield, in his role as the Managing Director of RCSI Bahrain, expressed his delight and satisfaction with the successful completion and activation of their solar farm, marking a significant milestone in the campus’s history since its establishment in 2009. RCSI Bahrain takes great pride in being an early adopter of solar power, and they are enthusiastic about their contribution to Bahrain’s environmental sustainability efforts and the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7, which focuses on “Affordable and Clean Energy.” Harrison-Mirfield extended his sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) for their outstanding cooperation throughout the project, as well as acknowledging the invaluable support of all stakeholders involved.

The solar project is generating approximately 3.664 million kWh of electricity per year, meeting around 60% to 65% of the university’s annual electricity demand. This sustainable energy source has significantly reduced our carbon footprint by 2,247 metric tonnes annually, which is equivalent to removing 927 cars from the road each year. To accomplish this, a total of 4,993 solar panels were installed across the campus parking area, providing shade for 681 car parks, and offering an additional benefit for our students, staff, and visitors.

Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain, expressed his pride in the strides made toward enhancing the environmental sustainability of the campus for the people of Bahrain. He commended Mr Stephen Harrison-Mirfield, Managing Director of RCSI Bahrain, and Mr Mohamed Abdullah, Head of Estates & Support Services, for their dedicated efforts, along with all the individuals and parties involved in the successful execution of this project.