Strategy to position Egypt as regional energy hub

Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, reiterated on Wednesday the state’s commitment to upgrading the electricity sector as part of the sustainable development plan.

The minister’s remarks were made during a meeting with media representatives at the National Press Authority (NPA) headquarters.

NPA Chairman Eng Abdel Sadek El-Shorbagy and heads of the national press institutions attended the meeting.

Esmat outlined Egypt’s national strategy aimed at positioning the country as a regional energy hub connecting Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. 

He briefed the gathering about ongoing electrical interconnection projects with neighboring countries, including Sudan, Libya, and Jordan, as well as the soon-to-be-operational connection with Saudi Arabia.

“Plans for linking with Greece and Italy further reinforce the shared vision for regional energy integration. These initiatives facilitate clean electricity transfer across borders, meeting sustainable energy needs and stabilising power networks,” Esmat said.

According to him, Egypt is also expanding co-operation with African nations to share expertise and support renewable energy projects.

The minister said modern technologies, such as smart metres and prepaid systems, would enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction, citing plans to stabilise the national grid, enhance service quality, and reduce electricity theft.

He has reiterated the importance of renewable energy in reducing carbon emissions and addressing climate change. By 2040, renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydropower are projected to contribute 60 per cent of Egypt’s energy mix.

Projects include 65 GW of wind and solar energy, 4.8 GW of nuclear power, and advancements in energy storage and green hydrogen technologies. These developments aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, transitioning to cleaner energy solutions. 

Esmat also discussed the role of the private sector in renewable energy, supported by reforms such as the Electricity Law and favorable investment policies.