Bahrain is planning to cut power consumption at ministries and government departments through the use of energy-saving equipment, a report said.

The scheme was announced yesterday (April 27) as the Cabinet convened for its weekly meeting, reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

It decided to adopt Saudi metrological standards for air-conditioning equipment, which is either imported or manufactured in Bahrain.

Chairing the Cabinet meeting, HRH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa stressed the importance of the move in boosting revenues and optimising productivity.

A ban was also imposed on importing or manufacturing incandescent lamps with tungsten filaments, Cabinet secretary-general Dr Yaser bin Essa Al Nasser said.

Compact fluorescent lamps will replace incandescent bulbs.

The ministries of Industry and Commerce and Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs were tasked to draw up regulatory measures to implement them within six months.

The initiative will be co-ordinated with the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Customs Affairs and the Electricity and Water Authority.

The energy-saving technology will also feature in the rules and regulations governing construction licences.

Developers will have to abide by the terms of the permit and commit to incorporate energy-saving equipment and thermal insulation technologies. – TradeArabia News Service