Egypt witnessed a significant step in the field of renewable energy, as Dr. Mahmoud Esmat, Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, signed several agreements to establish two important solar energy projects in addition to two energy storage plants. The projects aim to enhance the use of clean energy and activate the energy transition strategy set by the government. The projects reflect Egypt’s commitment to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and improving the energy mix.
The first agreement includes the project that will be established in the Benban area with a capacity of 200 megawatts, in addition to a storage station with a capacity of 120 megawatt hours. The second agreement relates to a solar energy project in West Minya with a capacity of 1,000 megawatts and a storage station with a capacity of 600 megawatt hours. The timetables and mechanisms necessary to complete the project and connect it to the national electricity grid have been determined. These projects are considered part of the shift towards a sustainable energy source.
The Minister of Electricity confirmed that the electricity sector is proceeding according to an integrated strategy to increase reliance on clean energy, as the government aims to raise the percentage of renewable energies’ contribution to the energy mix to reach 42% by 2030, then to 65% by 2040, which reflects Egypt’s vision aimed at enhancing the sustainability of energy sources and improving their efficiency.
For his part, Dr. Esmat explained the importance of building a strong and flexible electrical network based on the latest technologies, as the sector seeks to transform the network from standard to smart, which helps achieve stability in electricity supply and reduces resulting emissions. He also stressed the necessity of accelerating the implementation of projects to achieve the maximum benefit from renewable energies and provide energy in an effective and sustainable manner.
