JLanka eyes $10mn investment into Bahrain renewable energy sector
JLanka International headquarters to be based in Bahrain
JLanka International has announced plans to invest up to $10 million into Bahrain’s renewable energy sector in the next five years. The firm says the launch of JLanka International also signifies JLanka Technologies’ first overseas business entity outside of Sri Lanka.
According to a statement, JLanka has been commissioned by the Sustainable Energy Unit (SEU) under the supervision of Dr Abdul Hussain Bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Electricity and Water, to conduct an exclusive training programme to educate and certify solar PV contractors and consultants. The firm will also have to train EWA personnel on grid connection standards.
“We are delighted we are expanding our operations internationally and Bahrain was an ideal choice for our first overseas investment. Bahrain’s Government has a clear commitment to renewable energy enablement and is therefore the perfect location to launch and expand a technology driven company. Bahrain provides companies with the unique opportunity to expand directly across the GCC, making it an important gateway for any company looking to access the rest of the GCC. What’s more, the opportunity to tap into a young, motivated and highly skilled workforce, is of paramount importance for any new industry, with the sharing of knowledge with the local Bahraini workforce crucial to the success of our investment,” said Magdy Elnemr, chief business development officer of JLanka International.
JLanka has also been appointed as lead consultant on a project to install solar PV systems on more than 500 government owned buildings including schools and hospitals. The project wins follow on from the Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO) awarding Green Innova, under the consortium formed with JLanka, an operation and maintenance contract for the 5MW solar plant installed at the University of Bahrain and at various Bapco sites.
Dr Simon Galpin, MD of the Bahrain Economic Development Board added, “The fact that JLanka has chosen Bahrain as its first port of call for international expansion is a testament to the conditions that exist here for the solar power industry. It’s not just the focus and commitment put in place by the government through the National Renewable Energy Action Plans (NREAP), but also our highly skilled workforce and unparalleled government support for innovative technology.”
Galpin concluded, “We welcome the investment from JLanka, a company whose application of next generation technology can undoubtedly increase the efficiency and the financial feasibility of renewable energy projects in Bahrain.”
