Bahrain’s Bapco Energies exploring nuclear and wind plans

MANAMA, May 27, 2025 – Bapco Energies is considering the deployment of offshore wind projects and small modular reactors in the 2030s as part of Bahrain’s push for a diversified energy strategy, the Daily Tribune reported on Tuesday.

Group CEO Mark Thomas opened the 32nd Middle East Petroleum & Gas Conference in Manama by emphasising the need for long-term energy planning in the face of “unprecedented uncertainty”, welcoming delegates to what he called “the region’s most enduring forum for energy dialogue”.

Thomas highlighted the resilience of global hydrocarbons, citing International Energy Agency data that recorded oil demand at 102.9 million bopd in 2024 alongside wind and solar achieving a 15% share of electricity generation. “We’re not witnessing a transition away from hydrocarbons — we’re living through an era of energy addition,” he said.

The company is pursuing several major initiatives including a new upstream exploration deal with EOG Resources for unconventional gas in the Pre-Khuff formation and a record offshore 3D seismic survey covering more than 4,000 square kilometres with AI-enabled data analysis.

Thomas also referenced the nearly complete USD 7-billion Bapco Modernization Program, which aims to increase refining capacity while boosting efficiency and environmental standards. “One of the most ambitious energy infrastructure upgrades Bahrain has ever undertaken,” he said.

Looking to the future, Thomas said Bapco Energies is actively exploring solar, offshore wind and nuclear options to support Bahrain’s energy transition. “We’re planning not just for the next quarter, but for the next quarter century,” he said.

Bapco Energies is the integrated national energy company of Bahrain. Its portfolio spans upstream and downstream operations including oil and gas exploration, refining, marketing and renewable energy development. The company is at the forefront of the kingdom’s efforts to modernise and diversify its energy industry.

Photo courtesy of Bapco Energies

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