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Egypt creates plan to reduce electricity consumption

The government's plan to reduce wasted electricity is meant to boost natural gas exports to Europe but is receiving some pushback from domestic users.

Egypt power
The sun sets behind high-voltage transmission towers in Egypt's Qalyubia governorate of the Nile Delta, on June 26, 2022. — KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images

CAIRO — The Egyptian government recently announced a plan to reduce electricity consumption throughout the country, including in state departments and ministries.

The plan aims to free up gas for export that is currently pumped into power stations in order to generate profit in hard currency, according to a government statement.

On its official website, the Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy launched a campaign to raise awareness and to urge citizens to reduce power consumption at home.

On Aug. 13, Egyptian governorates began implementing the rationalization plan. Malls and stores across the country came under scrutiny to ensure compliance with closing times.

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