Egypt replaces diesel with solar to power oil wells

The Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC) has successfully launched several solar energy projects to replace diesel used in oil production operations at sites managed by Norpetco, Petrofarah in the Western Desert, and Osoco in the Eastern Desert.

These initiatives align with the priorities outlined by Petroleum Minister, Karim Badawy, in a parliamentary address, focusing on reducing emissions and the energy transition within the petroleum sector.

The projects, overseen by a committee from EGPC under the leadership of CEO Alaa El Batal, utilise solar energy to power industrial pumping systems at oil wells. The committee’s plan aims to expand such high-return projects, which significantly reduce diesel consumption.

The solar projects are expected to save approximately EGP 4.3 million annually, allowing for a return on investment within 18 to 24 months. Additionally, they are projected to cut carbon dioxide emissions by over 420 tons per year.

EGPC is prioritising the expansion of solar energy projects in oil wells due to their positive economic and environmental impacts, emphasising the importance of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing environmental sustainability.