SDG 7

Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. In Bahrain, the government recognizes the importance of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, especially given the country’s heavy reliance on fossil fuels for energy production and economic activities.

Government Initiatives for Energy Efficiency

National Energy Efficiency Action Plan: Bahrain has developed a comprehensive National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) to promote energy conservation across various sectors. This plan outlines specific targets and strategies to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency.

Investment in Renewable Energy: The government is actively investing in renewable energy projects, particularly solar energy. Bahrain has abundant sunlight, making solar power a viable alternative. Initiatives include setting up solar farms and encouraging private investment in renewable energy technologies.

Regulatory Framework: The government has introduced regulations and standards aimed at improving energy efficiency in buildings, appliances, and industrial processes. The building codes promote the use of energy-efficient materials and technologies.

Public Awareness Campaigns: To promote energy conservation among citizens, the government runs awareness campaigns that educate the public about the benefits of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.

Partnerships and Collaborations: Bahrain collaborates with international organizations and other countries to share knowledge and best practices in energy efficiency and renewable energy. These partnerships often lead to capacity-building initiatives and technology transfer.

SDG 7 at Applied Science University (ASU) in Bahrain

Applied Science University (ASU) in Bahrain is committed to supporting the goals of SDG 7 through education, research, and community engagement.

Curriculum Integration: ASU incorporates energy efficiency and renewable energy topics into its engineering, environmental science, and business programs. Students learn about sustainable energy practices and technologies that are crucial for the future of energy production and consumption.

Research and Innovation: The university encourages research initiatives focused on energy efficiency solutions and renewable energy technologies. Faculty and students engage in projects that explore innovative approaches to energy management and sustainability, contributing to the broader knowledge base in these fields.

Collaborative Projects: ASU collaborates with local industries and governmental bodies on projects aimed at improving energy efficiency. These partnerships often involve students in practical applications of their study, allowing them to contribute to real-world energy solutions.

Sustainability Initiatives on Campus: ASU has implemented various sustainability initiatives on its campus to reduce energy consumption. This includes the use of energy-efficient lighting, smart building technologies, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources for campus operations.

Community Engagement: The university participates in community outreach programs that promote energy conservation practices among the public. Events and workshops are organized to educate the community on sustainable energy use and the importance of transitioning to renewable sources.

Conclusion

Bahrain is actively working towards achieving SDG 7 through comprehensive government initiatives focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy development. Institutions like Applied Science University play a crucial role in this process by educating future professionals and engaging in research and community projects. Together, these efforts contribute to a sustainable energy future for Bahrain, aligning with global sustainability goals.

SDG 7 in Bahrain

https://www.sdgs.gov.bh/Goal/?ID=hSirOimZ58WUkA7gF7p9Rw

The Bahraini government implemented several initiatives to promote affordable and clean energy. One of these initiatives is the National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NREAP), which aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix to 5% by 2025. Bahrain has also launched the Sustainable Energy Unit (SEU), which is responsible for promoting sustainable energy policies and initiatives, including the development of renewable energy projects.

Industrial Visit to Solartecc Green Energy Factory

https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/PND-V8-Issue-11-01February-23-3.pdf

On Thursday the 24th of November 2022, the college of engineering arranged a visit to Solartecc Green Energy Factory for the students from Civil and Architectural Engineering programmes under the supervision of Dr. Malak Naji, Dr. Mohamed Arabi, Dr. Walid Abushiba, and Ms. Safa Awawdeh. Bahrain-based Solartecc is a leader in solar power and energy solutions dedicated to bringing cleaner, greener and renewable energy to homeowners and businesses across the Kingdom. Mr. Abdulla AlHameedi, the Factory CEO, is an ASU alumnus. He got a Bachelor in Political Science and pursued his higher education to distinguish himself and achieve this very well position. The students were given the opportunity to gain some valuable insight into the work of the company in the renewable energy sector, and to gain a better understanding of its production process and explore innovative measures for improving manufacturing and engineering processes. The ASU engineering students had a unique experience to learn how these solar systems are built and how they work, and they also had a chance to meet and interact with many key people who made this factory successful in its field. The Engineering Director, Mr. Mostafa Ayman, offered the students a tour of the facility and an explanation of the manufacturing, design, installation, operation and maintenance processes. The off-grid and on-grid solar systems were also introduced in the context of energy storage and management services at Solartecc.

During the visit, students had the opportunity to observe the panels being manufactured and greatly enjoyed the testing part. Students were truly inspired by the contribution of Bahraini youth in moving towards green energy and sustainability in the Kingdom. It is worth saying that students have visited the eco-friendly solar power-run project, King Hamad AMH in A’ali in the same day as one of the key projects achieved by Solartecc. At the end of the tour, appreciation certificates were presented in recognition of Solartecc team’s time and efforts in hosting ASU visit.

This extracurricular activity provides support to students to venture into professional field and gives a transformative experience that can further widen their social experience and career opportunities. The students had the chance for reinforcing the lessons learned in the classroom by gaining practical experience and knowledge in a real-life environment. It is an opportunity for students to participate in activities that will benefit them not only now but also in the future. Moreover, it develops new skills and encourages students to take initiative on their own. Level 4 Architectural Engineering student, Aysha Mohaish, stated: “Solartecc green energy factory visit was really interesting and exciting. I really enjoyed it and learned new information about the solar panels and the steps of doing it. It was really entertaining.”

The College of Administrative Sciences organized its first research seminar series, “Assessing the Co-movements Between Electricity Use and Carbon Emissions in the GCC Area: Evidence from a Wavelet Coherence Method,”

https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/PND-V8-Issue-12-02March-23.pdf

On 12 February 2023, the College of Administrative Sciences organized its first research seminar series, “Assessing the Co-movements Between Electricity Use and Carbon Emissions in the GCC Area: Evidence from a Wavelet Coherence Method,” delivered by Dr. Ali Matar (Head of Department of Accounting and Finance). Dr. Ali discussed the relationship between CO2 emissions and a variety of factors such as electricity consumption, economic growth, urbanization, and trade openness for six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries using data from 1965 to 2019. The speaker addressed many interesting recommendations during this seminar, including far-reaching policy whose applications may directly benefit environmental planning and bring high information value for the sake of sustainable energies in the Gulf region.

The Applied Science University is implementing a campaign to provide and install solar-powered lamps in the village of Al-Akar.

https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/PND-V8-Issue16-24-July-23.pdf

As part of the Applied Science University’s initiatives for community partnership and service, the Community Service Office, in collaboration with the Al-Akar Charitable Association, organized a campaign to provide and install 13 solar-powered lamps to illuminate various locations in the village of Al-Akar. The campaign took place on Thursday, June 15, 2023, with the participation of members of the academic and administrative staff, university students, and the local community.

University Measures Towards Affordable and Clean Energy

The university has taken several measures towards achieving affordable and clean energy in their buildings. One of these measures is the allowance for maximum daylight penetration into the building through high windows and skylights. This reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day, which saves energy. To prevent the transfer of heat and solar radiation, ASU uses double glazed panels and reflective coatings on out glass. Additionally, the university uses double wall construction with thermal insulation between to cut heat gain and save energy used for cooling. ASU also uses motion sensors in rooms and studios to control artificial lighting, thus saving energy. The university has also switched to using LED light fittings in the main lobby and external facade lighting, which consume less energy than traditional light fittings. Finally, the Building Management System (BMS) controls lightning levels in public areas, optimizing the lightning levels throughout the 24-hour cycle. These measures taken by ASU towards clean and affordable energy not only reduce energy consumption and costs but also contribute to environmental sustainability. The measures taken by the university to reduce energy consumption such as using solar panel streetlights, a Building Management System (BMS), and motion sensors in classrooms, are important steps towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) – Affordable and Clean Energy. By using solar panel streetlights, the university is promoting the use of renewable energy and reducing its reliance on traditional sources of energy, thus contributing to SDG 7. The BMS by Honeywell EBI-R500 system is also an important tool in reducing energy consumption by optimizing the use of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems on campus. This can help reduce the university’s energy consumption and costs, while also reducing its carbon footprint. Finally, the use of motion sensors in classrooms ensures that energy is not wasted on lighting when the classrooms are not in use, contributing to the overall goal of affordable and clean energy. These measures taken by the university demonstrate its commitment to achieving SDG 7 and promoting environmental sustainability. The Honeywell EBI R500 software is a computer-based control system that consists of both software and hardware components. The software program is typically configured in a hierarchical manner and can be proprietary, utilizing various communication protocols such as C-Bus, Profibus, and others. Vendors are also producing BMS systems that integrate the use of Internet protocols and open standards, including DeviceNet, SOAP, XML, BACnet, LonWorks, and Modbus. Such systems provide enhanced control and management of HVAC systems, improving energy efficiency and contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy.

Energy Use Density

https://www.asu.edu.bh/

Energy usage per month = 129340 KWh

Total build-up area of the Campus: 19241 Sqm

Energy usage per Sqm = 6.7 KWh per Sqm

Applied Science University Visited the United Nation House

https://www.asu.edu.bh/latest-news-digest/presidents-news-digest-v8/

Within the initiatives of the Community Engagement Office at Applied Science University and in coordination with the Department of Political Science and College of Law, ASU visited the United Nation House in Manama on Tuesday, 5 February 2019.

The visit by Applied Science University (ASU) to the United Nation House in Manama is an important step towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) – Affordable and Clean Energy. During the visit, HE Mr Amin El Sharkawi, the Resident Representative of UNDP in Bahrain, delivered a lecture on Sustainable Development Goals, which includes SDG 7. The academic staff and students from ASU also participated in discussions on the topics raised during the visit, presenting ideas and discussing prospects of cooperation that can be made between ASU and UN House. By engaging with the UN and promoting sustainable development, ASU is contributing to the global effort to achieve SDG 7 and promoting environmental sustainability.

A Campaign to Provide and Install Solar-Powered Lamps

https://www.asu.edu.bh/community-engagement/community-engagement-booklet/

As part of the Applied Science University’s initiatives for community engagement and service, The ASU Community Engagement Office, in cooperation with Al Eker Charitable Society, organised a campaign to provide and install (13) solar-powered lamps to light different locations in the village of Al-Aker on Thursday, June 15, 2023, with the participation of a number of academic and administrative staff, university students, and the local community.

Univerity Courses

https://www.asu.edu.bh/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BID-EN-Study-Plan-22-23.pdf

The universty offers several courses that are relevant to Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) – Affordable and Clean Energy. One such course is Building Information Modeling (BIM), which focuses on the use of digital tools and technologies to plan, design, and construct buildings that are energy-efficient and sustainable. BIM enables architects and engineers to optimize building performance, reduce energy consumption, and minimize the environmental impact of construction projects. Another relevant course offered by ASU is Lighting Design, which explores the use of lighting in buildings to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. The course covers topics such as lighting controls, daylighting, and the use of energy-efficient lighting technologies. By learning about lighting design, students can contribute to the development of buildings that are energy-efficient and promote sustainable development.

ASU also offers a course on Innovative Materials, which focuses on the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials in construction projects. The course covers topics such as green building materials, renewable energy systems, and sustainable design practices. By learning about innovative materials, students can contribute to the development of buildings that are energy-efficient and promote sustainable development. Overall, these courses offered by ASU demonstrate the university’s commitment to promoting affordable and clean energy and contributing to sustainable development. By providing students with knowledge and skills in these areas, ASU is preparing the next generation of professionals to address the challenges of climate change and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Energy Efficiency Services for Industry

The university is contributing to SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy through its research on energy efficiency services for industry. ASU is collaborating with London South Bank University and industry partners such as Almanarateen company to advance the development of sustainable building components for environmentally friendly construction. One such innovation is the use of graphene-based concrete in construction, which has the potential to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry. The authors of the research project on graphene-based concrete include Dr. Wael Abdelhameed, Dr. Mohamed Salama, Dr. Faiza Zitouni, and Mr. Yusuf Buzaboon from ASU, as well as Prof. Udeaja Emmanuel Chika, Dr. Suela Kellici, and Dr. Lucy Ogbenjuwa from LSBU. The collaboration between ASU and LSBU demonstrates the university’s commitment to international cooperation in addressing global challenges such as climate change. ASU’s collaboration with industry partners such as Almanarateen company also demonstrates the university’s commitment to practical solutions for sustainable development. A paper from the research project on decarbonisation of concrete using graphene-based materials in the cementitious mix design is currently under evaluation, highlighting the potential impact of this research on the construction industry’s carbon footprint. The conference link: https://bse.bh/en/conferences/2379/

Assistance to Low-Carbon Innovation

https://bse.bh/en/conferences/2379/

The research project on reducing energy consumption through resources and materials in residential projects’ design in Bahrain by Dr. Wael Abdelhameed, in collaboration with Eskan Bank, is an example of assistance to low-carbon innovation that contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) – Affordable and Clean Energy. The project aims to promote energy-efficient design practices in residential projects to reduce energy consumption and support a low-carbon economy. The research project is currently under evaluation, with a paper titled “Economic Environmental Approach in Energy Consumption of Houses” highlighting the potential impact of this research on the development of energy-efficient housing projects. The collaboration with Eskan Bank on their housing projects demonstrates the practical application of the research and its potential to contribute to a low-carbon economy. Overall, the research project on reducing energy consumption through resources and materials in residential projects’ design in Bahrain demonstrates ASU’s commitment to assisting start-ups and promoting low-carbon innovation, contributing to SDG 7 and promoting environmental sustainability. The conference link:

Research collaboration with Eskan Bank on Two Projects

ASU’s College of Engineering and Eskan Bank are collaborating on two research projects using three villa types from the Danat Al Barakah Project in Bahrain as case studies. The first project aims to reduce energy consumption by analyzing and implementing sustainable resources and materials in residential design. The second project focuses on improving acoustic conditions in residential buildings through detailed analysis and proposing methods to enhance sound insulation, ultimately promoting sustainability and better living environments. The two projects resulted in the International Conference on Green Engineering Material and Technology (ICGEMaT 2023) conference papers:

Energy Analysis in Housing Units
Acoustic Performance of Buildings as a Tool to Save Economic Resources
Noise Reduction in Housing Projects

Solar Energy Fans distributed to the Village of El-Eker

https://www.instagram.com/p/C8Ur2ntMeaD/?igsh=aXd4cm9lczRnOTZx

In collaboration with the Community Engagement Office, ASU distributed solar-powered fans to the village of El-Eker on Wednesday, June 12, 2024. These fans were installed at bus stops throughout the village. This initiative aims to provide relief from the heat for residents waiting for public transportation. It also promotes the use of renewable energy sources. The community has expressed appreciation for the project, highlighting its positive impact on daily life.

ASU Research Papers supporting Affordable and Clean Energy

https://www.instagram.com/p/C9ksbnztqUs/?igsh=MWoycDVteWo1b2p2aw%3D%3D&img_index=1

ASU has successfully published several research papers during the 2023/2024 academic year that focus on supporting Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) – Affordable and Clean Energy. These publications reflect the university’s commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation in the field of sustainable energy solutions. By addressing critical issues related to energy accessibility and sustainability, ASU aims to contribute to global efforts in promoting clean energy for all. This research not only enhances the academic environment but also positions the university as a leader in driving impactful change toward a more sustainable future.

Abdeldayem, M. (2024), Environmental Considerations in Vessel Scheduling for Sustainable Maritime Operations: A Decision Support Approach, 2024 ASU International Conference in Emerging Technologies for Sustainability and Intelligent Systems (ICETSIS), USA,

Abdeldayem, M. (2024), Empowering Greener Horizons: Novel Stakeholder Engagement Impact on Norway’s Solar-PV Storage Adoption, 2024 ASU International Conference in Emerging Technologies for Sustainability and Intelligent Systems (ICETSIS), USA,

Abdeldayem, M. (2024), Tatweer Petroleum Motivational Practice: Leveraging Technology for Employee Engagement and Productivity, 2024 ASU International Conference in Emerging Technologies for Sustainability and Intelligent Systems (ICETSIS), USA,

Abdeldayem, M. (2024), Assessing the role of direct public engagement in shaping the UAE nuclear energy sustainability image, International Journal of Organizational Analysis, UK,

Call for Participation in the MasterCard Challenge: Financial Inclusion for the Sustainable Development Goals

Students and alumni are invited to participate in the MasterCard Challenge: Financial Inclusion for the Sustainable Development Goals, themed “Solutions for the Future.”

This competition aims to:

Develop Innovative Solutions: Create groundbreaking ideas that unlock financial inclusion and sustainably support development goals.
Utilize Financial Data: Leverage financial services data to design actionable and impactful technical solutions applicable across various sectors and developmental stages.
Explore Interdisciplinary Challenges: Tackle real-world challenges related to the Sustainable Development Goals through an interdisciplinary lens.

The challenge seeks to inspire Bahraini youth to innovate and contribute to:

Economic Opportunities: Enhance job creation and entrepreneurship.
Economic Diversification: Support efforts for a more resilient economy.
Sustainable Development: Encourage practices that align with sustainability.

We encourage participants to think creatively and collaboratively, crafting solutions that are not only practical but also impactful. Join us in this initiative to shape a sustainable future!