Cairo: Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mahmoud Esmat engaged in discussions with Hussain Al Nowais, Chairman of AMEA Power from the UAE, to explore avenues for expanding cooperation in renewable energy, energy-storage station development, and project completion timelines. The dialogue also included preparations for the integration of projects into the unified national electricity grid.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the Ministry of Electricity released a statement indicating that the meeting evaluated project implementation progress against established timelines, emphasizing AMEA Power's commitment to completing its projects ahead of the summer season. Additionally, the discussions focused on advancing cooperation in energy storage and considering several projects in light of current work developments to introduce new renewable-energy capacities in the near future.
The meeting also reviewed the Ministry's strategy to boost renewable energy reliance, reduce conventional fuel usage, cut carbon emissions, and support private sector involvement and investment in national energy strategy projects. The goal is to increase clean energy's share to 42% of the total energy mix by 2030 and 65% by 2040. The discussions also explored enhancing partnerships and boosting AMEA Power's investments in renewable energy and energy storage through battery technology to optimize renewable energy benefits and stabilize the national grid during peak times.
Further, the meeting addressed updates on the solar-energy project, including steps for operation and grid connection of the 'Abidos 2' solar power project, which boasts a 1000-MW capacity and a 600-MWh battery-storage facility under construction in Aswan Governorate. Operations are expected to commence before next summer to address rising power demands and ensure a stable electricity supply.
Esmat highlighted the state's vision for energy transition, emphasizing the reduction of carbon emissions and the shift from fossil fuels. He underscored the significance of hydropower, nuclear energy, and battery-storage systems in securing a continuous electricity supply, maintaining grid stability, and ensuring sustainability of power.
Esmat further emphasized that the meeting is part of an ongoing effort to monitor renewable-energy project contracts and address potential implementation hurdles, aiming to adhere to timelines for capacity additions and grid connections, augment clean energy contributions, and diversify energy sources. He affirmed the private sector's crucial role in executing the energy strategy and leading project implementation within its framework.
He praised the collaboration with AMEA Power and commended the company's adherence to project timelines and implementation schedules, which paves the way for further joint initiatives.