The Jabal Abyad Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project

A primary component of these renewable energy projects is the development of the 2,000 MW Jabal Abyad PHES facility. This venture is a collaborative effort involving the EDF power solutions, Oman National Engineering and Investment Co, TAKHZEEN Oman, and Green Universe Enterprise, in coordination with the Authority for Public Services Regulation. Once completed, it will stand as one of the largest pumped hydro energy storage projects in the Middle East.

Located near the Wadi Dayqah Dam, the facility is designed to provide extensive energy storage capacity. This infrastructure is essential for maintaining grid stability and allowing for a higher integration of renewable sources into the national power grid. Beyond technical capabilities, the project is expected to generate significant in-country value by supporting the local construction sector, small and medium enterprises, and domestic job creation.

Advancing Solar Power Development at Al Kamil

The second major initiative involves the 500 MW Al Kamil Solar PV Independent Power Project. This facility will be financed, constructed, and managed by a consortium including EDF power solutions, Oman National Engineering and Investment Co, and OQ Alternative Energy, working alongside Nama Power and Water Procurement. This project is a vital component of the national strategy for solar power development, aimed at meeting the increasing demand for reliable and clean electricity.

Sustainable Digital Infrastructure and AI Integration

In addition to the clean energy agreements, the Government of Oman, EDF power solutions and Synergy Investments have entered into a memorandum of understanding for a 1,000 MW sustainable digital infrastructure platform. This platform is intended to establish Oman as a regional hub for advanced computing, cloud services, and artificial intelligence.

Béatrice Buffon, Chief Executive Officer of EDF power solutions, said: “Today’s signing reflects the strength of the strategic relationship between France and the Sultanate of Oman, as well as our shared ambition to accelerate the energy transition. By combining large-scale renewable generation with advanced energy storage solutions, EDF power solutions is proud to bring its industrial expertise to the development of a more resilient, sustainable and secure energy system for Oman.”

Ahmed bin Salim Al Abri, Chief Executive Officer of Nama PWP, stated: “Al Kamil Solar IPP is a key addition to Oman’s clean energy portfolio, advancing Nama Power and Water Procurement commitment to delivering reliable, competitive, and low-carbon power. The project strengthens private sector participation, enhances Sultanate of Oman’s investment attractiveness, and reinforces the role of renewable energy in supporting sustainable economic development and environmental responsibility.”

Kumail Said, Acting Chief Executive Officer of OQAE said: “The 500 MW Al Kamil Solar PV Independent Power Project (IPP) builds on a series of solar, wind, and energy storage projects developed by OQAE, demonstrating our continued commitment to advancing Oman’s energy transition as the National Champion for Renewable Energy.”

The agreements for these renewable energy projects reinforce the established collaboration between EDF and key stakeholders in Oman’s energy sector. Drawing on its extensive global experience in renewable energy, energy storage and integrated infrastructure projects, EDF power solutions continues to contribute to the Sultanate of Oman’s efforts to expand reliable and low-carbon energy capacity. The Al Kamil Solar PV IPP marks EDF power solutions’ third renewable energy development in Oman, following the 500MW Manah1 Solar PV IPP and the 120MW JBB Wind IPP.

The agreements also provide a foundation for conducting detailed technical assessments, progressing project development work and strengthening cooperation among the participating parties as the initiatives move toward implementation. They underscore a collective commitment to advancing Oman’s clean energy ambitions while supporting economic diversification, technological innovation and sustainable development goals outlined in Oman Vision 2040.

The first wind turbine factory initiative is designed to support Egypt’s broader efforts to localise renewable energy technologies, increase clean energy generation capacity and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities. It forms part of the country’s strategy to boost local industry participation in renewable energy projects while increasing the domestic component used in such developments. The agreement also supports the localisation of advanced solar and wind energy technologies, expansion of electrical equipment manufacturing and implementation of renewable energy projects in Egyptian pounds.

In addition, the project is expected to benefit from Egypt’s trade agreements, enabling locally manufactured products to reach export markets throughout Africa and the Middle East.

Partnership Between SANY Renewable Energy, EETC and NREA

The MoU was signed between China’s SANY Renewable Energy, a global leader in wind turbine manufacturing technology, and Egypt’s Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company (EETC) and New and Renewable Energy Authority (NREA). Signatories included Li Qiang, Chairperson of SANY Renewable Energy, Mona Rizk, Chairperson of the EETC, and Ehab Ismail, Chief Executive Officer of the NREA.

Under the agreement, Egypt will establish its first wind turbine factory to manufacture equipment and components for local wind energy developments while exporting excess production to regional markets. The agreement further covers the development of a 2 GW wind power plant that will be implemented in local currency. The project supports Egypt’s National Energy Strategy, which aims to raise the share of renewable energy in the national energy mix to 45% within the next two years.

Government Highlights Renewable Energy and Energy Security Goals

Speaking on the sidelines of the signing ceremony, Madbouly emphasised the role of renewable energy projects in reinforcing Egypt’s electricity sector and broadening the country’s energy sources. He said that localising industries connected to renewable energy remains a central element of improving energy security and supporting Egypt’s green transition agenda.

Madbouly also pointed to the government’s continued efforts to strengthen cooperation among state institutions and expand partnerships with local and international private-sector investors. These partnerships are intended to accelerate renewable energy projects, including solar, wind and energy storage systems, using local currency. He further noted that Egypt is increasing its focus on energy storage solutions to maximise renewable energy output while maintaining the stability and reliability of the national electricity grid.

Project Timelines and Manufacturing Capacity

Esmat stated that localising electrical equipment manufacturing, particularly renewable energy components, aligns with the state’s objective of implementing solar and wind energy projects in Egyptian pounds. He added that the ministry is pursuing measures aimed at increasing local manufacturing content across the sector.

According to Esmat, the agreement includes the construction of the first wind turbine factory with an annual production capacity of 2 GW. The facility is expected to be completed within a maximum of two years after the signing of the final agreements. The wider project also includes a 2,000 MW wind farm, which is anticipated to be connected to Egypt’s national electricity grid within 23 months of project execution.

The minister further noted that Egypt’s growing market for solar and wind energy projects, combined with strong trade links across the Middle East and Africa, enhances the country’s position as a regional centre for renewable energy manufacturing and exports.

The EU-Kuwait energy roundtable was organized by the EU Delegation to Kuwait as part of commemorations marking 40 years of diplomatic relations between the EU and Kuwait. The roundtable brought together representatives from Kuwait’s Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Science (KFAS), the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), alongside leading European energy experts and diplomats.

Focus Areas for EU-Kuwait Energy Cooperation

The discussions at the EU-Kuwait energy cooperation event centered on multiple dimensions of energy sector development. Participants examined promising opportunities across renewable energy projects, advanced technology deployment, infrastructure development, regulatory framework enhancement, investment mobilization, and capacity building initiatives.

The deliberations reflected the broader context of Kuwait’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, a goal that requires comprehensive restructuring of the nation’s energy landscape and increased reliance on clean energy sources.

European Expertise in Kuwait’s Energy Sector

EU Ambassador to Kuwait Anne Koistinen emphasized the long-standing contribution of European professionals to Kuwait’s energy development. She noted that European experts have collaborated with Kuwaiti counterparts for decades across multiple energy domains, including conventional oil and gas operations, renewable energy projects, engineering consultancies, technical standardization bodies, and policy advisory services.

Koistinen highlighted that the current roundtable built upon outcomes from the EU-Kuwait Green Transition Forum held in February, which was organized under the leadership of Kuwait’s Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, Dr Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem. That forum brought together government officials, research institutions, and private-sector stakeholders to strengthen collaboration on clean energy, climate resilience, and skills development.

Strategic Partnership Framework

The EU Ambassador indicated that negotiations are being prepared for an EU-Kuwait Strategic Partnership Agreement. This formal framework would provide structured foundations for existing cooperation efforts and place particular emphasis on energy sector collaboration, creating pathways for more coordinated and sustained engagement between the two parties.

Key Outcomes and Stakeholder Perspectives

Dina AlNakib, Senior Director of Research and Technology Deployment at KFAS and moderator of the roundtable, emphasized the event’s success in bringing together leading European and Kuwaiti energy stakeholders. She noted that the EU-Kuwait energy roundtable effectively demonstrated the contributions of EU professionals within Kuwait’s energy sector and identified avenues for deepening cooperative efforts.

According to AlNakib, participants highlighted several critical elements necessary for effective energy transition. These included operational excellence, infrastructure readiness, technology deployment, supportive regulatory and investment frameworks, institutional knowledge transfer, and stronger partnerships among government agencies, industry, research organizations, and diplomatic stakeholders.

Learning from EU’s Energy Transition Experience

The EU-Kuwait energy roundtable also showcased valuable lessons from the EU’s own energy transition journey. Speakers highlighted that renewable energy now generates more electricity across the EU than fossil fuels, reflecting the bloc’s substantial restructuring of its energy system over the past decade.

This European experience holds particular relevance for Kuwait as it seeks to expand clean energy deployment and diversify its energy mix. The EU Delegation to Kuwait indicated its commitment to ongoing engagement with Kuwait to advance green transition initiatives. The organization stated that it will continue supporting the development of a more sustainable and resilient energy system through innovation, expertise sharing, and long-term strategic cooperation between the two partners.

Building on the Success of Previous Projects

The new agreement builds directly on the achievements of the preceding project, which demonstrated substantial progress in large-scale renewable energy deployment. AMEA Power’s successful commissioning of the 500MW Wind Power Plant at Ras Ghareb, Egypt, in June 2025, established a blueprint for utility-scale development. Operating as Africa’s largest wind farm, the Ras Ghareb facility showcased AMEA Power’s capabilities in managing complex renewable energy projects while reinforcing confidence among investors regarding the bankability and scalability of such endeavors.

Combined Capacity and National Impact of Amunet II

The Amunet II project represents the second major utility-scale wind initiative for AMEA Power in Egypt. Upon completion, AMEA Power’s combined wind power capacity in Egypt will reach 1GW, a substantial contribution to Egypt’s renewable energy portfolio. This expansion directly supports the country’s strategic objectives for diversifying its energy mix and accelerating the transition toward cleaner power sources.

Strategic Partnership of Envision Energy and AMEA Power

“From Amunet I to Amunet II, our partnership with AMEA Power has evolved into a strategic collaboration built on trust, innovation and long-term value creation,” said Kane Xu, Senior Vice President of Envision Energy.

“The project demonstrates the scalability of our partnership model and the value of global collaboration in advancing the energy transition. Today, Egypt is increasingly playing a key role in the global energy transition. Envision will continue to leverage our leading technologies and global execution capabilities to deliver reliable and efficient clean energy solutions across Egypt and the wider MENA region, supporting a more sustainable energy future,” he further added.

“The successful delivery of our 500MW wind project in Ras Ghareb, Egypt, demonstrated what can be achieved when strong partners share a common vision and commitment to execution. The Amunet II project marks the next phase of our collaboration with Envision Energy and reflects our continued confidence in Egypt’s renewable energy sector. Together, these projects will bring our wind portfolio in Egypt to 1GW, supporting the country’s energy transition while creating lasting economic and social value,” said Hussain Al Nowais, Chairman of AMEA Power.

The project will be implemented under the leadership of the state-owned Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company (EETC) and is intended to enable the integration of 22 gigawatts (GW) of renewable-energy capacity into the national network by 2030. This volume of renewable generation is expected to provide enough electricity to serve approximately 10 million households. By reinforcing the clean energy grid, the investment aligns with Egypt’s national priorities to expand renewable energy deployment, improve electricity infrastructure and strengthen its position as a regional energy hub. The initiative also contributes to the objectives of the EU-Egypt Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership by promoting investment mobilisation, advancing renewable energy cooperation and supporting the transition toward a more sustainable, secure and competitive energy system.

“This agreement reflects the strength of the partnership between Egypt and the European Union and our shared determination to advance the green transition,” said Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates.

“Together with the EIB and the EU, we are taking an important step to modernise our electricity network, strengthen energy security and create new opportunities for sustainable growth. This is the kind of practical cooperation that brings real benefits to our economy and our people,” he added.

The clean energy grid initiative is among the first major operations launched under the Trans-Mediterranean Renewable Energy and Clean-Tech Cooperation Initiative, (T-MED), which serves as a flagship programme of the Pact for the Mediterranean. The framework is intended to promote renewable energy and clean-tech cooperation between the European Union and its southern Mediterranean partners.

European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica said, “Under its newly launched flagship initiative, T-MED, today we presented a major EU-supported project to strengthen and expand Egypt’s electricity infrastructure. This will reinforce Egypt’s role in the regional energy markets and create major business opportunities for local and European companies. It is another testimony of our shared commitment to sustainable growth, energy security and long-term prosperity in the Mediterranean.”

The review meeting, as conveyed by presidential spokesperson Ambassador Mohamed El-Shenawy El-Shennawy, specifically addressed the implementation status of this second phase of national grid reinforcement projects. This comprehensive phase involves an estimated 105 distinct initiatives designed to enhance the reliability and capacity of the electricity network.

Further underscoring Egypt’s commitment to sustainable energy, Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, provided insights into the forward-looking plans to integrate solar and wind energy projects with the national grid by the year 2027.

The national grid reinforcement discussions also cast a spotlight on current solar energy and battery storage projects. These efforts are integral to Egypt’s ambitious plan to elevate the proportion of renewable energy in its overall power generation mix to 45% within the next two years. The ongoing expansion of both grid-connected and standalone energy storage facilities is central to achieving this target.

Esmat reported on the successful operation of the initial phase of the Obelisk Solar Power Plant, which was connected to the grid earlier this year. This first phase boasts a substantial capacity of 500 megawatts (MW), complemented by a 200 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery energy storage system. He further indicated that the second phase of this project, set to add another 500 MW of solar capacity, is anticipated to be connected to the grid in the coming weeks. This is part of a deliberate strategy to introduce new solar and wind generation capacity during the peak summer demand period.

The meeting also provided an update on the developments concerning the Energy Valley project. Recognized as one of the world’s largest integrated clean energy projects, it features 1.7 gigawatts (GW) of photovoltaic solar generation capacity situated in Minya Governorate. This capacity is further supported by advanced battery energy storage systems, totaling 4 gigawatt-hours (GWh), distributed across Minya, Qena, and Alexandria governorates.

Considered one of the most substantial electricity transmission projects currently underway in Egypt, the Egyptian transmission project boasts total investments estimated to be between EGP 12 billion and EGP 14 billion. The project has been strategically divided into eight distinct segments, attracting competitive bids from a range of prominent local and international entities and consortia. The consortium, including Korra Energi, will be responsible for the execution of the first lot under the agreement, which spans approximately 45 kilometers and is valued at around EGP 788 million, along with an additional $14 million.

Furthermore, the third lot encompasses a route of roughly 52 kilometers, with a contract value of approximately EGP 875 million, supplemented by $15 million. Both segments are slated for completion within a one-year timeframe, commencing after the finalization of all contractual procedures. Upon its conclusion, this expanded network is projected to facilitate the integration of over 2 gigawatts of electricity generated from new wind power projects in the Gulf of Suez.

Ayman Korra, CEO of Korra Energi, said “Winning the contracts marks a new strategic step that strengthens Korra Energi’s position in the energy and infrastructure sector and confirms our ability to seize quality opportunities that support business growth and the expansion of our project portfolio.”

“The project directly supports the state’s direction towards expanding renewable energy projects by linking new wind energy projects to the national electricity grid, which enhances energy security, raises the efficiency of the electricity system, reduces energy transmission losses, and supports the achievement of Egypt’s goals in the field of clean energy and sustainable development,” he added.

Among those present at the ceremony were Sheikh Hussein Al Nowais, Chairman of UAE-based AlNowais Investments and its subsidiary AMEA Power, along with Ni Jin, Chairman of China Energy Engineering Corp (CEEC). The agreements relate to Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) activities for two standalone battery developments. These include the Horus standalone battery project in Zafarana with a capacity of 500 MWh and the Nefertiti standalone battery project in Benban with a capacity of 1,000 MWh. Together, these initiatives constitute the 1500 MWh Battery Storage Project, designed to strengthen Egypt’s energy infrastructure and support the growing integration of renewable energy resources.

The agreements align with Egypt’s broader strategy to accelerate both grid-connected and standalone energy storage developments. The objective is to maintain network stability, secure uninterrupted electricity supplies, improve the utilization of renewable energy resources, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels as part of the country’s energy transition plans.

Highlighting the significance of the 1500 MWh Battery Storage Project, Esmat noted that energy storage systems were incorporated into Egypt’s national electricity grid for the first time in 2025. He explained that reliance on solar and wind generation requires additional battery storage capacity to preserve grid security and ensure a dependable and sustainable power supply. He also indicated that a series of projects are being implemented according to defined schedules to increase storage capacity to 14,320 MWh by 2028.

Esmat further stressed the value of localizing industrial production and facilitating technology transfer through cooperation with private-sector partners. These efforts are intended to maximize available resources and reinforce Egypt’s standing as a regional center for manufacturing renewable energy equipment.

Following the contract award, EWEC and the project partners signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) that will remain in effect through to 2050. Under the arrangement, EWEC will serve as the sole purchaser of electricity generated by the plant, acquiring the net electrical energy produced by the facility. Taqa will hold a 60 per cent ownership stake in the Taweelah C project as the local and majority shareholder, while the international consortium will own the remaining 40 per cent.

Commenting on the award, Mohamed Almarzooqi, Chief Assets Officer, said, “As EWEC transforms the UAE’s energy sector through our strategically planned, comprehensive approach that balances rapid decarbonisation with the security of supply, Taweelah C represents a key milestone in our long-term strategic roadmap. The project serves as a bridge that empowers us to accelerate our world-leading renewable energy capacity, expected to exceed 30GW of solar PV by 2035.”

“Taweelah C also delivers sustainability and cost benefits, with one of the region’s lowest capital expenditure rates per kilowatt-hour and the lowest levelised cost of electricity. This advanced transitional infrastructure enables us to accelerate our decarbonisation timeline while continuing to deliver the electricity powering Abu Dhabi and the nation’s economic growth and prosperity. We are pleased to be working with Taqa, Aljomaih Energy and Water Company, and Sembcorp Industries to advance this important project,” he further added.

Under the terms of the agreement, Taqa will also own a 40 per cent share of the operations and maintenance (O&M) company, while the international consortium will hold 60 per cent. Responsibility for the design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of the facility will be shared by Taqa and its consortium partners under Abu Dhabi’s established IPP programme.

Dr. Frank Possmeier, Chief Investment Officer, Taqa Generation, said, “Taweelah C is a key addition to our low-carbon power and water portfolio in Abu Dhabi as we accelerate execution of our growth strategy to reach 150GW of power capacity internationally by 2030. Flexible and baseload gas-powered generation will make up to 50GW of our 150GW target in our 2030 portfolio, and it will continue to play a critical role in supporting the integration of renewables and advancing the UAE’s net-zero aspirations.”

Adnan Abdulhadi Buhuligah, Chief Executive Officer of Aljomaih Energy and Water Company, said, “Our partnership with Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) reflects our commitment to working with leading institutions to deliver reliable, efficient, and future-ready power infrastructure continuing to support the broader transition taking place across the region.”

Koh Chiap Khiong, President & CEO, Gas and Related Services, Sembcorp Industries, said, “The Taweelah C project underscores Sembcorp’s commitment to supporting the UAE’s energy transition through long-term partnerships and disciplined project execution. This project builds on our strong track record in the region and our successful partnership with Taqa on the Fujairah 1 Independent Water and Power Plant, which has operated reliably for more than two decades in support of the UAE’s power and water needs.”

Recent disruptions to the national electricity grid prompted quick responses from technical teams across the nation. While these incidents caused minor delays to scheduled maintenance timelines for power generation units, ministry officials emphasized that adaptive measures have kept operations on track. The teams continue focusing on ensuring all production facilities remain fully prepared for summer peak loads.

Expanding transmission capacity remains central to maintaining grid stability throughout the summer peak loads. Kuwait has strengthened partnerships with the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority to enhance network reliability and increase overall system resilience.

Load management strategies implemented across industrial and agricultural sectors are helping balance electricity demand more effectively. Authorities have drawn lessons from previous conservation campaigns to refine current planning approaches.

A significant achievement in Kuwait’s power infrastructure modernization is the accelerated deployment of smart meter technology across the nation. Installation efforts have progressed faster than initially projected, with officials expecting to surpass 90 percent completion by the end of 2026. Wider deployment of smart meters will enhance monitoring capabilities across the electricity network, supporting more efficient energy distribution.

Kuwait is advancing several major renewable energy projects designed to strengthen long-term energy security and expand generation capacity. The Khairan project’s first phase bidding process has concluded with two bids received, moving the initiative toward the investor selection stage. Government officials are preparing to announce the winning investor for the 1,100-megawatt third phase of the Shagaya Renewable Energy Project within the coming two months.

Bidding for an additional 500-megawatt renewable energy phase has been extended through July, allowing more time for interested parties to submit proposals. Ongoing discussions regarding new solar energy and battery storage initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to diversifying electricity generation sources. These projects aim to reduce dependence on traditional generation methods while enhancing overall energy resilience for future decades.