As part of its Decarbonisation Roundtable Series, Sustainability Forum Middle East (SFME), in partnership with Tabreed Bahrain and Boston Consulting Group, hosted a roundtable titled “Accelerating Energy Efficiency Delivery under Bahrain’s National Energy Strategy”, bringing together stakeholders from government, industry, finance, and advisory sectors to examine pathways for advancing energy efficiency across the Kingdom.

The discussion focused on the critical role of energy efficiency in supporting Bahrain’s National Energy Strategy and long-term net-zero ambitions. Participants explored how demand-side optimisation can contribute to emissions reduction, energy security, and infrastructure resilience, while addressing the challenges associated with population growth, urban development, and rising electricity demand.

The roundtable examined opportunities to optimise electricity consumption through more efficient infrastructure, improved planning frameworks, and scalable demand-side solutions. Particular attention was given to the built environment, where cooling-related demand represents a significant share of electricity consumption, and to the role of district cooling as a proven solution for reducing energy intensity and peak demand.

Participants also discussed the policy, regulatory, financing, and market mechanisms required to accelerate implementation. The conversation highlighted the importance of integrated infrastructure planning, public-private collaboration, and investment approaches that recognise the long-term value of energy efficiency in supporting economic growth, competitiveness, and climate objectives.

Held under Chatham House Rules, the roundtable provided a platform for constructive dialogue and knowledge exchange, contributing to SFME’s ongoing efforts to advance practical decarbonisation solutions and support the region’s transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future.