International Power – in consortium with Suez Energy International and Sumitomo Corporation – is the preferred bidder for the Al Hidd Independent Water and Power Project on sale from the government of Bahrain.

The move will see the acquisition of a five-year old 910 MW combined cycle gas turbine and 30 MIGD water desalination plant, located on the east coast of Bahrain. In addition, a 60 MIGD water desalination expansion will be implemented which is expected to be in operation by the end of 2007. The power and water output from the facility will be sold to the Ministry of Electricity and Water (MEW) under a 20-year Power and Water Purchase Agreement (PWPA).

The project has been awarded on a build, own, operate basis, 40% to International Power 30% to Suez Energy International and 30% to Sumitomo.