Egypt in talks with Qatar’s Al Mana Holding on $15.6 mln biodiesel plant

Egypt is in talks with Qatar’s Al Mana Holding to develop a $15.6 million biodiesel plant that would convert used cooking oil into fuel, part of the country’s effort to cut pollution and expand renewable energy.

The proposal, discussed by Local Development and Environment Minister Manal Awad and company representatives, envisions a facility capable of producing 100 tons of biodiesel per day, according to a government statement.

Egypt consumes about 2.8 million tons of cooking oil annually, generating roughly 2.6 million tons of waste oil — much of which is improperly discarded, clogging sewage networks and contaminating waterways. Awad said recycling that waste into biodiesel could reduce environmental damage while creating a new domestic energy source.

The company has proposed building the plant in the industrial city of 10th of Ramadan and establishing a nationwide system to collect used cooking oil from households, factories and restaurants. The plan includes a digital platform to guide citizens to collection points and offer incentives for participation.

Awad emphasised the need for a structured collection mechanism and suggested offering financial or in-kind rewards, particularly to women, to encourage safe disposal practices and create supplemental income opportunities.

If implemented, the project could help lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, while supporting Egypt’s efforts to expand sustainable fuels and attract private investment in environmental infrastructure.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: Y.Yasser