Egypt, EBRD explore joint initiatives for sustainable infrastructure

Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, met with a delegation from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), led by Harry Boyd Carpenter, Managing Director for Sustainable Infrastructure, on the sidelines of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) General Assembly in the UAE, according to an Egyptian Cabinet statement on Monday.

The discussions covered a range of collaborative projects, including wind measurement initiatives for future power plants, updates on the Nexus of Water, Food and Energy (NWFE) programme, the decommissioning of outdated power stations, green hydrogen development, and strategies to enhance Egypt’s energy mix with a focus on renewable sources.

The meeting also addressed efforts to transform Egypt’s electrical grid into a smart network by upgrading its infrastructure and capabilities. Esmat highlighted the ministry’s commitment to sustainability by expanding renewable energy capacity, improving grid efficiency, and incorporating innovative technologies.

Esmat emphasised the importance of optimising natural resources, fostering public-private partnerships, and diversifying energy sources to ensure energy security. He reaffirmed Egypt’s aim to secure affordable, clean, and sustainable energy in line with its development goals, including reducing carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

The discussions also reviewed plans for energy storage systems and regional grid interconnection projects, which align with Egypt’s vision of developing a resilient and sustainable smart grid.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: M. S. Salama