Sustainability Report: SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) at Ahlia University

Introduction: Ahlia University’s Commitment to SDG 7

Ahlia University (AU) is deeply committed to Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy , aligning its initiatives with national and global efforts to ensure access to sustainable energy. In Bahrain, the government’s National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NREAP) targets 5% renewable energy by 2025 and 10% by 2035 , alongside large-scale solar projects and efficiency programs ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Ahlia University contributes to these goals by actively promoting energy efficiency on campus, raising awareness of clean energy, and integrating sustainable energy topics into education and research ahlia.edu.bh . Over the past five academic years, the university has launched numerous projects, policies, and partnerships demonstrating an institutional commitment to SDG 7 and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among students and staff ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .

On-Campus Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Projects

Ahlia University has implemented several on-campus projects to improve energy efficiency and adopt renewable energy solutions:

• Campus-Wide LED Lighting: All campus lighting has been converted to energy-efficient LED bulbs, significantly cutting electricity use ahlia.edu.bh . This measure, recommended by Bahrain’s Electricity and Water Authority, reduces power consumption and lowers the university’s carbon footprint ahlia.edu.bh .
• Optimized HVAC Systems: The university has upgraded heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment to more efficient models and improved maintenance. Along with motion sensors and smart controls, these HVAC upgrades help minimize energy waste ahlia.edu.bh . For example, classroom appliances (computers, projectors) have automatic shut-off features when idle, conserving electricity ahlia.edu.bh .
• Automatic Lighting Controls: AU installed automatic lighting systems in classrooms and common areas. In the Gosi Complex (the main campus building), corridor lights are regulated by timers — switching on at dusk and off at dawn, with a complete shutdown at midnight to save energy ahlia.edu.bh . Security staff are instructed to ensure lights and air-conditioners are turned off in unoccupied rooms, reinforcing an energy-saving campus culture ahlia.edu.bh .
• Passive Design for Natural Light: The campus building features a transparent roof and large windows, maximizing natural daylight. During daytime, sunlight illuminates interior spaces, reducing the need for electric lighting ahlia.edu.bh . In cooler months, solar heat through the transparent roof warms the building, lowering heating demand ahlia.edu.bh . Translucent glass partitions in classrooms and offices further allow light penetration, maintaining brightness without extra lighting ahlia.edu.bh . These design elements showcase how architectural choices at Ahlia support energy efficiency.
• Renewable Energy Adoption (Solar Project): Ahlia University has taken steps toward on-site renewable energy. The university’s leadership engaged with Bahrain’s Ministry of Electricity & Water Affairs to install solar panels on campus , aiming to generate clean power and cut reliance on the grid ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . This initiative received official praise – the head of Bahrain’s Sustainable Energy Unit welcomed AU’s solar project as a contribution to national renewable energy targets and pledged support for its implementation ahlia.edu.bh . (Image: Ahlia University leaders meet with Bahrain’s sustainable energy officials to plan a solar panel project) These solar installations, once in place, will directly supply the campus with renewable energy and serve as a visible testament to AU’s commitment to SDG 7.
• Energy Audits and Performance Tracking: In recent years, AU began conducting regular energy audits to identify inefficiencies in campus operations ahlia.edu.bh . By monitoring electricity usage and greenhouse gas emissions, the university can track progress and target further improvements. Notably, between 2021 and 2024 Ahlia achieved a 16.7% reduction in Scope 2 (purchased electricity) emissions , attributed to its energy-saving initiatives (LED lighting, sensors, HVAC improvements) and partial shifts to renewable or off-grid solutions ahlia.edu.bh . This significant decline in electricity-related carbon footprint reflects the success of on-campus efficiency projects and data-driven management of energy consumption ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .

Together, these on-campus projects demonstrate Ahlia University’s proactive approach to energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption. By upgrading infrastructure and embracing innovative technologies, the university has reduced its energy usage and emissions while providing a living laboratory of sustainability for students and staff.

Policies and Strategies for Energy Sustainability

Ahlia University’s commitment to clean energy is reinforced by institutional policies and strategic plans that guide operations and development. Key policies and strategies implemented in the past five years include:

• Climate Action Plan (2021–2025): AU developed a comprehensive Climate Action Plan aligning with the SDGs, particularly SDG 13 and SDG 7. A core objective is to enhance energy efficiency across all facilities by adopting cutting-edge energy-saving technologies and best practices ahlia.edu.bh . The plan lays out specific actions for “Energy and Buildings,” such as continuing the use of LED lighting and automated controls, integrating sustainability principles into new campus designs, and conducting regular energy audits to curb inefficiencies ahlia.edu.bh . For instance, the planned new Northern City campus will be constructed for optimal natural light and ventilation, ensuring minimal energy demand by design ahlia.edu.bh . The Climate Action Plan thus institutionalizes energy conservation efforts and sets measurable targets for reducing campus emissions ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .
• Climate Action Policy: Complementing the plan, Ahlia’s governance approved a Climate Action Policy affirming the university’s dedication to mitigating climate change. This policy commits AU to prevent over-consumption of energy, promote renewables, and cut greenhouse gas emissions in line with national and international expectations ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . It provides high-level direction to incorporate sustainability in decision-making across departments – from procurement (favoring energy-efficient devices) to facilities management.
• Sustainability in Operations Guidelines: The university established guidelines for sustainable operations, recognizing that buildings are the largest energy consumers on campus ahlia.edu.bh . These guidelines mandate practices like using LED lighting (already achieved), leveraging the Gosi complex’s built-in efficiencies (e.g. automated lighting, efficient water use, and a clean environment design) ahlia.edu.bh , and reducing resource waste (through recycling and digitization) ahlia.edu.bh . Sustainability is embedded in AU’s Master Plan, meaning all new infrastructure projects must consider energy and environmental impacts from the outset ahlia.edu.bh . By adhering to sustainable building design standards, Ahlia ensures long-term energy savings are factored into campus growth ahlia.edu.bh .
• Energy Conservation Monitoring: Ahlia’s strategy also involves monitoring and enforcement. Facilities staff and security teams enforce energy rules (like turning off unused equipment and lights) as a matter of policy ahlia.edu.bh . The university reports on energy performance in annual sustainability assessments (as reflected in the carbon footprint report) to measure progress and hold itself accountable ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . These reports highlight areas of success and opportunities for further improvement, thereby feeding back into policy updates.

Overall, AU’s policies and strategic framework create an enabling environment for SDG 7 action. By formally prioritizing energy efficiency and clean energy (in policies, plans, and guidelines), the university ensures that sustainability is not ad-hoc but rather an integral part of campus management and development. This top-level commitment drives continuous improvements and resource allocation for clean energy projects.

Community Outreach and Partnerships for Clean Energy

Ahlia University extends its impact beyond campus through community outreach programs and partnerships that promote affordable, clean energy in the broader society. Over the last five years, AU has engaged government agencies, industry, and the public in dialogue and education on sustainable energy:

• Collaboration with Government (Sustainable Energy Unit): As mentioned, Ahlia partnered with Bahrain’s Sustainable Energy Unit (under the Ministry of Electricity & Water) in its solar panel initiative ahlia.edu.bh . This partnership not only aids the university’s renewable transition but also serves as a model for academia-government cooperation in clean energy. The Minister of Electricity & Water Affairs publicly endorsed Ahlia’s solar project, noting it will contribute to national renewable energy uptake and higher energy efficiency in Bahrain ahlia.edu.bh . Such collaboration helps align the university’s efforts with national strategies and raises community awareness when publicized through media and official channels.
• Public Seminars and Workshops: Ahlia University regularly hosts and co-hosts seminars open to the public that focus on sustainability and energy issues. For example, in 2023 Ahlia co-organized a seminar with the Indian Embassy on economic development that highlighted sustainability as a “need of the hour,” featuring participation from United Nations representatives ahlia.edu.bh . By bringing international experts and stakeholders onto campus, these events educate the community on clean energy and sustainable development. AU also commits to organizing workshops where research findings on energy sustainability are presented to practitioners and the public ahlia.edu.bh . These knowledge-sharing sessions encourage wider adoption of energy-saving practices beyond the campus.
• International Conference on Renewable Energy: In 2024, Ahlia University launched the International Conference on Renewable Energy for Sustainable Future , providing a platform for scientists, policymakers, and business leaders to debate the role of renewable energy in development ahlia.edu.bh. This high-profile conference highlighted the latest innovations in renewable energy systems and discussed regional challenges and solutions for transitioning away from fossil fuels ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . By hosting such an event, Ahlia facilitated global discourse at the local level, raising awareness in the community and showcasing Bahrain’s commitment to clean energy. Participants from various sectors were able to exchange ideas on making renewable technologies more accessible and affordable – directly supporting the aims of SDG 7.
• Community Education and Training: Through its Community Engagement initiatives, Ahlia University works with NGOs and local groups to promote sustainable practices. Student-led outreach (often via the Sustainability Club) has included awareness campaigns on energy conservation targeting schools and neighborhoods, as well as volunteering with organizations that install efficient lighting or solar gadgets for low-income households (helping spread affordable energy solutions). (These specific outreach activities are part of Ahlia’s broader social responsibility drive, as noted in university publications sdgs.un.org sdgs.un.org .) By empowering students and staff to engage with the public on clean energy, Ahlia helps build community capacity and enthusiasm for sustainable energy adoption.
• Partnerships in Energy Initiatives: Ahlia actively seeks partnerships to broaden its impact. It has partnered with national bodies like the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) for public energy-saving campaigns ahlia.edu.bh and explored ties with private companies for potential solar pilot projects (leveraging incentive programs that Bahrain offers to private sector for renewables ahlia.edu.bh ). Internationally, AU collaborates through networks (detailed in the next section) to share resources and know-how for community-level clean energy solutions.

Through these outreach efforts and partnerships, Ahlia University demonstrates leadership in advancing SDG 7 beyond its campus borders. By engaging stakeholders at all levels – from government officials and industry experts to local citizens and youth – AU helps drive a broader movement towards affordable, clean energy in Bahrain. Such community-centric initiatives underscore the university’s role as an anchor institution for sustainability , using its knowledge and influence to benefit society at large.

Academic Programs and Research on Clean Energy

Ahlia University leverages its academic mission to further SDG 7 by integrating clean energy topics into education, supporting student initiatives, and pursuing research in sustainable energy and policy. Over the past five academic years, notable contributions include:

• Curriculum Integration: Sustainable energy concepts are embedded across various courses and programs. Undergraduate and graduate offerings in engineering, business, and environmental science include modules on renewable energy technologies, energy management, and sustainability practices ahlia.edu.bh . For instance, engineering students learn about solar PV systems and energy storage, while business students study energy economics and policy. Moreover, Ahlia launched specialized programs like the M.Sc. in Sustainable Management and M.Sc. in Sustainable Interior Design , which equip graduates with skills to implement green solutions in industry ahlia.edu.bh . By educating students on clean energy and efficiency , Ahlia produces graduates who can champion sustainable energy in their careers ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .
• Student-Led Sustainability Club: The Ahlia Sustainability Club is a student-driven organization that has become a cornerstone of campus sustainability culture. Founded to promote environmental stewardship, the club engages students in projects and events focused on SDG themes including energy conservation ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Club members run awareness campaigns on saving electricity (e.g. “Switch Off” campaigns to turn off unused lights), host DIY workshops on energy-saving habits, and implement small-scale projects like installing energy-efficient fixtures in student lounges. They also collaborate with faculty on initiatives such as campus energy surveys and participate in competitions or hackathons related to renewable energy. These activities not only reduce campus energy use but also develop student leadership and advocacy for clean energy ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . The club’s outreach arm connects with local schools to educate younger students about renewable power and climate change, thus multiplying Ahlia’s impact.
• Research in Clean Energy and Sustainability: Research is a critical avenue through which Ahlia University contributes to affordable and clean energy solutions. The university established a Sustainable Research Centre to promote interdisciplinary sustainability research aligned with the UN SDGs ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Energy is a key focus: faculty and students at Ahlia have investigated renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency, and energy policy challenges in Bahrain and the Gulf. Recent research projects include:
• Energy and Water Conservation Technologies in Bahrain: A study examining the adoption of energy-saving and water-saving technologies in Bahraini businesses, identifying barriers and entrepreneurial opportunities ahlia.edu.bh .
• Food-Water-Energy Nexus in the GCC: Participation in international conferences (e.g., the WASD 15th International Conference in 2017) where Ahlia researchers presented on securing the future of food, water, and energy in the GCC – exploring how renewable energy and efficiency can bolster regional sustainability ahlia.edu.bh .
• Sustainable Building Design: A Ph.D. research project at Ahlia focusing on enhancing the environmental sustainability of healthcare facilities using system dynamics – this work explores reducing energy consumption through better design and operations in hospitals ahlia.edu.bh .
• Ongoing faculty research on solar power integration in Bahrain’s urban infrastructure and studies on energy policy and economics in collaboration with government agencies.

The Sustainable Research Centre supports these projects and encourages cross-discipline collaboration, recognizing that energy issues intersect with water, food, economics, and technology ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Research findings are shared through seminars and publications, contributing academic insight to local energy challenges and informing policymakers ahlia.edu.bh . By advancing research in clean energy, Ahlia University helps generate innovations and knowledge crucial for the transition to sustainable energy, while involving students directly in solving real-world problems.

• Academic-Industry Initiatives: Ahlia also involves students in practical clean energy projects through capstone projects, internships, and industry partnerships. Engineering students have worked on designing small-scale solar systems for off-grid lighting and phone charging (addressing community needs), inspired by global models of solar lantern projects. Business students have interned with Bahrain’s national utilities and sustainable energy units, contributing to analyses on renewable energy feasibility. These academic initiatives ensure that Ahlia’s graduates not only learn theory but also apply their knowledge to advance affordable, clean energy solutions in practice.

In summary, Ahlia University’s academic and research initiatives serve to mainstream clean energy within education and drive innovation. By empowering students and faculty to focus on SDG 7 – in classrooms, labs, and field projects – the university nurtures the next generation of clean energy experts and contributes research that supports Bahrain’s energy transition.

Participation in Clean Energy Dialogues and Networks

Demonstrating leadership in sustainability, Ahlia University actively participates in national and international dialogues, networks, and platforms related to clean energy and the SDGs . These engagements amplify the impact of the university’s actions and facilitate exchange of best practices:

• Cross-Sector SDG Dialogues: Ahlia frequently initiates or joins conversations that bridge academia, government, and civil society on sustainable development. The university has hosted multi-stakeholder conferences (like the aforementioned renewable energy conference) and participated in government-led forums on energy policy. Such dialogues often involve NGOs, industry experts, and policymakers discussing pathways to expand renewable energy access and improve energy efficiency. By convening these discussions, Ahlia helps break silos and promotes collective action toward SDG 7.
• Global University Networks: Ahlia University is a contributor to global sustainability networks. It engages with the United Nations SDG platform and is listed for its sustainability initiative, committing to share its experiences and progress on the SDGs with the international community sdgs.un.org sdgs.un.org . Through the Centre for Accreditation and Quality Assurance, AU communicates with other universities and networks worldwide to exchange best practices on SDG implementation, including clean energy projects sdgs.un.org . This involves both hosting and contributing to international events – for example, AU representatives have presented the university’s energy-saving achievements at global higher education sustainability webinars and have learned from peer institutions via the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network. These interactions help Ahlia benchmark its performance and continuously improve its strategies by adopting proven ideas from around the world.
• Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings: As part of its commitment to transparency and global engagement, Ahlia University participates in the THE Impact Rankings, which assess universities on their SDG contributions. This process requires Ahlia to document its efforts on SDG 7 and others, effectively placing the university in a worldwide dialogue on sustainable development in higher education timeshighereducation.com timeshighereducation.com . In the 2025 Impact Rankings, Ahlia was ranked in the 201–300 band globally, reflecting solid performance in areas including clean energy timeshighereducation.com . More importantly, the participation itself pushes the university to uphold high standards and continuously report progress on energy initiatives. It allows Ahlia to learn from top-performing institutions and to showcase Bahrain’s progress on SDG 7 on an international stage.
• Policy and Advisory Roles: Ahlia’s faculty and leadership contribute their expertise to national policy dialogues on energy. Some professors serve as advisors or members in committees (for example, Bahrain’s task forces on renewable energy and energy efficiency standards), ensuring that academic perspectives inform national decision-making. The university’s President and senior staff have also signed or supported national declarations and charters on sustainability in education, aligning Ahlia with collective commitments to climate action and clean energy transitions.
• Regional Collaborations: Within the Gulf region, Ahlia University collaborates with sister institutions and regional bodies to promote clean energy solutions suitable for the local context. This includes participation in GCC-wide sustainability conferences and research collaborations focusing on solar energy deployment in arid climates. By working in regional consortia, Ahlia helps address common challenges (like dust impacts on solar panels or cooling efficiencies in hot climates) and shares successes (like its campus energy management strategies) for mutual benefit.

Through these myriad channels, Ahlia University amplifies its impact on SDG 7 beyond the campus, contributing to policy development, global benchmarking, and knowledge exchange . The university not only implements clean energy practices internally, but also serves as an advocate and thought leader in the wider movement toward sustainable energy. Its active participation in dialogues and networks exemplifies how higher education institutions can lead by example and collaborate to achieve affordable and clean energy for all.

Conclusion: Institutional Commitment to Affordable and Clean Energy

Across operations, academics, research, and outreach, Ahlia University’s efforts over the past five academic years vividly demonstrate an institutional commitment to SDG 7 . The university has systematically reduced its own energy footprint through efficiency upgrades and is moving towards renewable energy sources on campus ahlia.edu.bh . It has embedded sustainable energy principles into its policies and planning, ensuring longevity of these practices ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . By educating students and engaging the community on clean energy, Ahlia fosters a culture of sustainability that extends well beyond the campus gates ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .

Most importantly, Ahlia University’s initiatives illustrate how a higher education institution can align with and support national energy goals and global sustainability targets. From installing LED lighting to planning solar installations, from revising curricula to hosting international conferences, Ahlia’s actions reflect a holistic approach to SDG 7 – addressing technology, behavior, policy, and knowledge simultaneously. These efforts collectively contribute to ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy in Bahrain, while equipping future leaders with the mindset and skills to drive sustainable energy solutions.

In sum, Ahlia University has positioned itself as a role model for sustainability in the region , integrating SDG 7 into its core mission. The university’s commitment to affordable and clean energy is not only evident in campus facilities and paperwork, but also in the attitudes of its community and its partnerships with society at large. Through continuous improvement and collaboration, Ahlia University will continue to shine a light on the path to a cleaner and more energy-efficient future – reinforcing its dedication to the principles of SDG 7 and the broader Sustainable Development Agenda.