Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has approved new regulations governing the use of lighting in roadside advertisements, as part of Egypt’s national drive to reduce electricity consumption.
The rules, prepared by the National Agency for Regulating Roadside Advertisements, aim to strike a balance between energy efficiency and sustaining investment in the advertising sector.
Iman Nabil, CEO of the agency, stressed that regulating billboard lighting is now a national necessity to enhance energy use efficiency. She explained that the framework ensures reduced consumption while maintaining economic activity and protecting jobs in the advertising industry.
The regulations prohibit the use of illuminated advertising units during daylight hours from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for billboards equipped with light sensors and automatic dimming systems.
At night, lighting is banned between midnight and 5 a.m. on internal roads and main highways, with exceptions only for tourist zones or areas granted special approval by the Cabinet.
All advertising units must use highefficiency LED lighting and energysaving cooling systems to minimise longterm electricity demand. Authorities will enforce compliance through licensing procedures, with penalties for violations such as excessive brightness or unauthorised lighting during restricted hours.
Officials say the move marks a step toward a more disciplined, sustainable advertising market aligned with Egypt’s energy conservation goals.
