Egypt nears final studies for 3,000-MW power link to Europe via Italy

Egypt is nearing completion of final technical, environmental, and financial studies for a planned 3,000-megawatt electricity link to Europe via Italy, as Cairo seeks to expand renewable-energy exports and strengthen its position as a regional power hub.

Electricity and Renewable Energy Minister Mahmoud Esmat reviewed progress on the project with Tajeddine Seif, chairman of UAE-based K&K Group, at the ministry’s headquarters in New Alamein, the ministry said on Thursday.

K&K is nearing completion of the final studies under a cooperation agreement with the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company (EETC), paving the way for the project’s construction, the ministry said.

The planned link will use submarine cables to transmit electricity from Egypt to Europe through Italy, supporting the country’s strategy to export renewable power to European markets.

The meeting reviewed the implementation plan, proposed submarine cable landing points, and the timetable for completing the 3,000-MW connection.

Esmat said the project was part of Egypt’s strategy to strengthen electricity interconnections with neighbouring countries and integrate its grid with the European network.

Egypt aims to become a regional hub for electricity trading and a bridge for energy transmission between Africa, Asia, and Europe, he said.

The government is also seeking to increase the share of renewable energy in the electricity mix, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and make greater use of Egypt’s natural resources for clean power generation.

“The electricity interconnection with Europe strengthens Egypt’s position as a regional energy hub and maximises the use of its natural resources as sources for renewable energy generation,” Esmat said.

Esmat said the private sector was a key partner in developing renewable energy projects in Egypt and that the European interconnection reflected confidence in the country’s technical and human capabilities and investment environment.

The government is also working to expand renewable energy use, cut carbon emissions, and diversify its energy sources, he said.

The project is being pursued under a cooperation and partnership agreement between K&K and the EETC, with completion of the final studies expected to pave the way for the next stage of implementation.