Egypt eyes faster renewable energy growth

Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, has called for accelerating the implementation of solar and wind energy projects by UAE’s Masdar in Egypt, with a focus on integrating them into the national grid. This came during a meeting with Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of UAE’s Masdar, on the sidelines of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) General Assembly, according to a statement from the Egyptian Cabinet on Tuesday.

The minister also discussed progress on recently signed agreements for solar power projects with a combined capacity of 1,200 megawatts, alongside energy storage batteries with a capacity of 720 megawatt-hours. These projects are part of Egypt’s urgent plan to boost electricity generation from renewable sources, ensuring grid stability and expanding clean energy’s share in the energy mix. Completion and operation of the projects are scheduled for this year.

Minister Esmat highlighted that these efforts are part of Egypt’s broader strategy for energy transition, aimed at achieving sustainable and clean energy development. He emphasised the national strategy’s ambitious targets for renewable energy, which include contributing over 42 per cent to the energy mix by 2030 and 65 per cent by 2040. This strategy is bolstered by increased private sector participation, both domestic and international.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: M. S. Salama