Egypt aims to produce 20% of power from renewables by 2020
Egypt has conducted feasibility studies for the construction of solar power plants that could not only help cover its energy needs, but become an exportable commodity.
CAIRO — In an attempt to escape the energy crisis triggered by frequent power cuts, lack of fuel and the deterioration of national networks and power stations, the Egyptian government has signaled its intent to expand the use of new and renewable energy, notably solar energy. Despite the enormous potential, it’s still a daunting prospect because of the level of investment required to expand in solar energy, especially in light of the continuing deficit in the state budget.
In September, Prime Minister Ibrahim Mehleb held a number of intensive meetings with Minister of Electricity and Energy Mohamed Shaker and other parties involved in the energy sector in Egypt to discuss the implementation of a long-term renewable energy strategy. The government confirmed in several press releases — copies of which were obtained by Al-Monitor — that there is no better way to get Egypt out of the energy crisis that doesn’t rely on natural gas or diesel fuel to run power plants.
