Bahrain began privatizing its electricity and water-supply sectors three years ago, and the Al Ezzel Power Plant represents the first fruit of that strategic shift. The 950-MW plant, powered by two identical 2 x 1 combined-cycle units that burn natural gas, went commercial in May of this year. The plant now supplies about half of the national grid's demand. The success of this fast-track project demonstrates the advantages of free markets and the wisdom of bringing in experts to build new capacity.