Addressing Recurring Power Deficits

Despite holding significant oil reserves, the nation frequently experiences power shortages and blackouts. Electricity demand consistently surpasses available generation, particularly during summer months when cooling requirements intensify. Current challenges include aging infrastructure, previous damage to facilities, administrative hurdles, and shortages of fuel and gas.

Integration of Large-Scale Renewable Projects

To combat these issues, the government is undertaking various infrastructure developments besides the planned 10 GW solar expansion. Iraq is collaborating with international energy companies and private-sector partners to increase solar power availability. Notable developments include:

• A 1,000 MW solar plant project led by TotalEnergies in the southern region.
• Strategic agreements with Masdar to facilitate the development of major solar infrastructure.
• The implementation of utility-scale solar facilities, with operational projects already contributing to the grid in Karbala province.

Expanding Residential and Commercial Access

Beyond utility-scale developments, the government is focusing on decentralized renewable generation. By providing subsidized financing through the Central Bank of Iraq, the state is encouraging households and small businesses to install rooftop solar panels and battery storage. This effort is aimed at reducing reliance on local diesel generators and fostering broader adoption of renewable generation throughout the country.

Impact on Energy Security

While the sector faces ongoing regulatory and administrative challenges, the intensified focus on Iraq solar expansion represents a shift toward a diversified energy portfolio. By integrating solar power with existing energy resources, the government aims to alleviate persistent electricity shortages and bolster long-term energy security. This 10 GW solar epansion to enhance grid reliability is a central component of the country’s current strategy to build a sustainable future.

The new framework has been developed to streamline the planning, engineering, and construction processes for power transmission substations by establishing consistent technical and engineering specifications. This standardized methodology is positioned to support Dubai’s rapidly increasing energy demand while accelerating the development of essential power infrastructure and reducing capital expenditure.

Key Performance Improvements Through Digital Substation Design

The implementation of this digital substation design delivers measurable operational and financial benefits. According to the authority, the optimized design can reduce the substation delivery timeline by more than two months, while lowering construction costs by approximately AED 5 million per installation. These cost reductions are achieved through infrastructure simplification and a reduction in the number of components required for each substation.

The optimization eliminates approximately 8,000 electronic components and roughly 140 kilometres of copper wiring per station. The building footprint has been reduced by about 220 square metres, contributing to more efficient land utilization. Additionally, each site can conserve approximately 12,720 gallons of water annually, primarily through enhancements to auxiliary and cooling systems.

Environmental and Energy Consumption Benefits

The power grid efficiency improvements extend to environmental performance metrics. Each substation is expected to reduce annual energy consumption by around 182 MWh through enhanced operational efficiency. This translates into a reduction of nearly 447 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per station annually, supporting broader sustainability objectives within the power sector.

International Recognition and Strategic Integration

The initiative has garnered international recognition, securing a top 6-star rating at the International Best Practice Competition. This acknowledgment underscores the project’s contribution to advancing infrastructure efficiency and implementing innovative methodologies in power system development.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DEWA, emphasized that the standardized digital substation design represents a critical component of Dubai’s smart energy transition. He noted that this approach creates opportunities for broader integration of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, including artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, into the electricity grid infrastructure.

Implementation and Future Deployment

The smart grid technology approach has already been applied to 90 power transmission substations throughout Dubai, with 23 substations commissioned during the first half of 2026. The initiative supports Dubai’s broader objective of developing a smart, sustainable, and future-ready urban environment.

By integrating standardization, digital technologies, resource efficiency, and advanced grid infrastructure, the authority aims to strengthen the reliability of electricity services while preparing the emirate’s power grid efficiency systems for future energy requirements.

The dialogue centered on reinforcing the partnership framework within Egypt’s broader energy transition strategy. Both parties discussed accelerating implementation timelines for renewable energy projects, diversifying the electricity generation portfolio, and reducing dependency on conventional fossil fuels. The meeting underscored the importance of expanding renewable energy capacity as part of Egypt’s comprehensive national energy strategy.

Key Projects and Development Focus

Current Implementation and Grid Connection Plans

Minister Esmat reviewed latest progress in Masdar’s renewable energy projects across Egypt, which encompasses solar installations, wind power facilities, and battery energy storage systems (BESS). A notable project involves a wind power initiative in the Gulf of Suez, with grid connection anticipated in December 2026.

The dialogue also addressed acceleration measures for project execution and grid connectivity, aligning with Egypt’s plan to introduce new generation capacities and increase the proportion of renewable energy within the overall electricity mix.

Multi-Sector Green Energy Program

A consortium comprising Infinity Power, Hassan Allam, and Masdar established a framework agreement in November 2022 with leading Egyptian state-backed organizations for developing a 2 gigawatt (GW) green energy program within the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE).

The consortium’s portfolio encompasses a 1,000 megawatt (MW) wind power facility in Ras Ghareb, a 1,000 MW solar installation in Minya, and 600 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage capacity. Additionally, the consortium is developing a 200 MW solar power project in Benban, complemented by 120 MWh of battery storage, with grid connection expected by the end of 2026.

Earlier Developments in Solar Capacity

Masdar’s involvement in Egypt renewable energy extends to earlier solar installations. In September 2020, Masdar acquired a stake in the 64.1 Megawatt Peak (MWp) Infinity 50 solar photovoltaic project located in Benban Solar Park, reinforcing the company’s commitment to expanding solar generation capacity in the nation.

National Energy Transition Goals and Strategy

Esmat emphasized that regular engagement with renewable energy companies forms an integral component of the government’s energy transition roadmap. The ministry prioritizes expanding renewable generation capacity alongside grid-connected and independent battery energy storage systems. This dual approach supports the administration’s primary objectives of diminishing fossil fuel consumption, enhancing electricity supply reliability, and preserving grid stability.

Egypt has established an ambitious target of increasing renewable energy’s contribution to the electricity mix to 45% by 2028. Achieving this goal requires substantial participation from both domestic and international private sector entities. The minister acknowledged Masdar’s significant role in this endeavor, characterizing the organization as a collaborative partner in advancing Egypt’s renewable energy ambitions.

Progress on Egypt Nuclear Energy Project

The primary focus of the discussions centered on the Dabaa nuclear power plant project, Egypt’s transformational initiative to strengthen its power generation capacity and energy independence. During the talks, officials reviewed construction schedules, evaluated coordination mechanisms between Egyptian and Russian teams, and assessed compliance with international safety protocols and quality benchmarks at the facility site.

Esmat characterized the Dabaa nuclear power plant as integral to Egypt’s long-term energy strategy, emphasizing its role in creating a more balanced and sustainable energy portfolio. The minister noted that tangible progress continues on the nuclear energy project, with oversight mechanisms in place to ensure smooth implementation alongside Rosatom and other relevant Egyptian institutions.

Expanding Bilateral Cooperation Beyond Dabaa

Beyond the immediate focus on the Dabaa nuclear power plant construction, the meetings explored broader dimensions of nuclear cooperation between the two nations. A significant component of these discussions involved human capital development and knowledge transfer initiatives designed to build Egyptian expertise in nuclear facility operations and management.

The minister highlighted the importance of training Egyptian personnel to operate and maintain nuclear facilities according to international standards. This capacity-building effort forms an essential complement to the physical development of the Egypt nuclear power plant, ensuring that local expertise grows alongside infrastructure expansion.

Advanced Reactor Technologies and Future Applications

A separate meeting addressed emerging developments in small modular reactor (SMR) technologies, reflecting both nations’ interest in next-generation nuclear solutions. Officials examined the latest innovations in reactor design and manufacturing, including potential applications for electricity generation, industrial processes, and regions with limited electricity demand.

Esmat said Egypt was closely monitoring global advancements in SMR technologies and assessing their potential future deployment as part of efforts to diversify the country’s energy mix and broaden the peaceful use of nuclear technology. The assessment considers technical and economic feasibility alongside nuclear safety requirements.

Reaffirmed International Commitments

Likhachev confirmed their organization’s continued dedication to the successful implementation of the Egypt nuclear power plant project. Officials pledged to maintain collaboration with Egyptian counterparts to ensure the facility moves forward according to established timelines while meeting the highest international standards for nuclear safety and construction quality.

Study Scope and Technology Assessment

The renewable energy feasibility study aims to examine multiple technological pathways that could address Musandam’s future energy requirements. The consultancy will evaluate solar photovoltaic systems, wind power installations, hybrid renewable energy configurations, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and other emerging renewable or storage technologies deemed suitable for the Governorate’s geographical and climatic conditions.

The appointed consultant will conduct a thorough assessment of available options, determining both the technical feasibility and economic viability of each solution. This comprehensive analysis is designed to identify practical clean energy solutions capable of supporting long-term energy security while advancing Oman’s sustainability and decarbonisation objectives.

Tender Timeline and Documentation Process

PWP has made tender documents accessible for purchase from 24th August 2026 through 3rd September 2026. The document acquisition fee is set at OMR 500, excluding Value Added Tax (VAT). However, registered small and medium enterprises holding a valid Riyada card are exempt from this fee and may obtain the tender documents at no cost.

Procurement of tender documents occurs exclusively through the official PWP website, which facilitates electronic transactions and online payment methods. Interested bidders requiring clarification on tender specifications or procurement procedures may contact PWP’s dedicated procurement office for assistance.

The submission deadline for proposals is established at 12:00 PM Oman Time on 24th September 2026. All participating bidders must include a Bank Guarantee or Tender Bond with their submissions, in accordance with conditions outlined in the tender documentation. The security requirement may alternatively be satisfied through a bank-certified cheque equivalent to a minimum of 1% of the total tender value. The tender security must maintain validity for 120 days following the proposal submission deadline.

Strategic Importance for Energy Security

The feasibility study outcomes are intended to provide PWP with comprehensive insights into Musandam’s renewable energy potential and the technologies most appropriately suited to the region’s specific requirements. This renewable energy feasibility study represents a significant component of Oman’s broader strategy to expand renewable energy deployment across the nation. The initiative supports multiple objectives within Oman’s energy framework, including strengthening energy resilience and facilitating the country’s transition toward a sustainable energy system.

Collectively, the USD 1.16B Saudi BESS projects will provide 2,000MW of storage capacity for four hours, representing 8,000 MWh of energy storage capacity. The facilities will be developed under the build-own-operate (BOO) model.

BESS Facilities Awarded to Global Consortiums

SPPC said a consortium comprising Saudi Energy, Acwa Power and Al Sharif Contracting and Commercial Development Company has secured the contract for three 500 MW/4-hour BESS facilities.

The projects include Al Muwyah BESS ISP in Makkah Region, which will provide 500 MW for four hours, Haden BESS ISP in Makkah Region, also with a capacity of 500 MW for four hours, and Al Kahafa BESS ISP in Hail Region, which will deliver 500 MW for four hours.

Separately, the Al Khushaybi BESS ISP project in Qassim Region has been awarded to a consortium comprising French utility major Engie and Haji Abdullah Alireza & Company. The project will also have a capacity of 500 MW for four hours.

The scope of the USD 1.16B Saudi BESS projects includes the development, financing, construction, ownership, operation and maintenance of large-scale battery energy storage facilities.

Storage Facilities to Support Grid Operations

Under the agreements, the USD 1.16B Saudi BESS projects will be capable of storing electricity for up to four hours before dispatching power when required. Their operation is intended to support grid stability, provide greater operational flexibility and strengthen the security and reliability of electricity supply across Saudi Arabia.

The agreements were signed in the presence of Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Energy, who also serves as Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources and Chairman of the Board of Managers of SPPC. Supervised by the Ministry of Energy, the projects are part of Saudi Arabia’s wider programme to expand energy storage infrastructure and enable the large-scale integration of renewable energy into the national electricity system.

The USD 1.16B Saudi BESS projects are also expected to support the Kingdom’s target of achieving an optimal electricity generation mix comprising approximately 50% renewable energy by 2030, while addressing growing electricity demand and reducing reliance on conventional generation during periods of peak demand.

Esmat also pointed to the contribution of UAE companies working with the Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy, along with its affiliated companies and authorities. Their involvement is particularly significant in renewable energy and efforts to diversify energy sources.

The minister said cooperation with UAE companies has resulted in extensive and successful partnerships under the National Energy Strategy and the state’s broader efforts toward the energy transition. These efforts include increasing reliance on renewable energy and expanding battery energy storage systems, areas that remain important to the development of Egypt’s electricity and renewable energy sectors.

Private Investment and Renewable Energy Projects

Esmat outlined the measures being implemented by the government to encourage greater private-sector involvement in solar and wind energy projects, battery storage initiatives and the development and modernisation of the national electricity grid. He said these measures are also intended to increase the grid’s capacity so that it can accommodate additional generation capacity.

According to Esmat, UAE companies have become key partners in several electricity sector projects, with renewable energy projects representing a particularly important area of cooperation. He further stressed that the private sector remains a major partner in carrying out the electricity sector’s strategy. The government, he said, is supporting and encouraging private investment so that the private sector can fulfil its intended role in the national economy.

Esmat also noted that private-sector companies are leading solar and wind energy projects in Egypt, reinforcing their role in expanding electricity and renewable energy development.

UAE Highlights Strength of Bilateral Relations

For his part, the UAE ambassador praised the strength of Egyptian-Emirati relations and described them as a model for Arab cooperation. He highlighted the deep historical and cultural connections shared by the two countries, alongside their broad common interests. According to the ambassador, these longstanding links are reflected in partnerships covering various fields, including investment and trade.

Project Planning and Consortium Coordination

The minister met with a delegation from the Renergy Group Partners consortium, which included founder Robert Falk and Madkour Group Chairperson Mostafa Madkour. The consortium, acting as the primary developer alongside local technical partner Green Tech Egypt and investment partner OAK Holdings, presented the findings of a joint study. Discussions focused on the technical and financial feasibility, potential grid interconnection methods, and the integration of local components. This Sinai clean energy project is slated for development across two phases, delivering a total capacity of 3,100MW.

Strategic Integration of Renewable Energy

Minister Esmat emphasized that the Sinai clean energy project aligns with the government’s wider strategy to increase the share of renewable energy within the national mix. A primary objective is to bolster the national electricity grid by incorporating reliable and stable power sources. According to the ministry, pumped-storage hydropower and battery energy storage systems are essential components for ensuring a sustainable supply of electricity as the nation shifts away from fossil fuel reliance.

Future Infrastructure and Storage Technologies

The ministry highlighted that battery energy storage systems have been progressively integrated into the national electricity grid over the previous two years. Furthermore, the development of a pumped-storage hydropower facility in El Tor, South Sinai, represents a core effort to diversify generation sources. This strategy aims to leverage the nation’s natural geography to optimize the utilization of renewable energy resources while maintaining the long-term stability of the power supply. The ministry continues to review the technical scenarios for this facility to ensure maximum economic return and energy security.

The EPC contract for 25MW wind power project the includes the design, supply and installation of five wind turbines at Batn Al Ghul. The initiative is being implemented under the cooperation agreement signed in February 2026 between Jordan’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and Abu Dhabi Future Energy Co., widely known as Masdar.

The 25MW wind power project is expected to support Jordan’s long-term strategy of increasing clean electricity generation while diversifying its energy resources. As part of its national energy strategy, Jordan has continued expanding renewable energy capacity, with renewable sources now contributing approximately 27 percent of the country’s electricity generation. The government is targeting a share exceeding 30 percent by 2030 through the addition of new solar, wind and energy storage projects.

Jordan-UAE Energy Cooperation Continues to Expand

Jordan’s renewable energy ambitions were further reinforced in May 2026, when the Cabinet approved the country’s 2025–2035 energy strategy. The roadmap seeks to increase renewable energy’s contribution to 40 percent of the electricity mix by 2035, alongside broader expansion of wind and solar generation capacity and continued progress on green hydrogen initiatives.

The agreement also complements broader renewable energy cooperation between Jordan and the UAE. In June 2026, Jordanian Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan met with Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al-Ramahi to discuss expanding the company’s investments across the country, including wind energy developments with a combined capacity of 2,000 MW. Technical studies for those projects are being completed ahead of implementation.

During the discussions, the prime minister pointed to the UAE-funded 25 MW Batn Al Ghul wind project as an important component of Jordan’s plans to increase renewable energy’s contribution to the national electricity mix while enhancing long-term energy security.

Masdar has already established a significant presence in Jordan through the 200 MW Baynouna Solar Power Plant, the country’s largest solar project, and also holds a 50 percent stake in the 117 MW Tafila Wind Farm.

Deployment at the Sohar Industrial Hub

The inaugural phase of the integrated renewable energy and water project is slated for the coastal city of Sohar. As a primary industrial and port center, Sohar provides a strategic location for the new facility.

Water and Power Specifications

The integrated renewable energy and water project includes the construction of a desalination plant designed to produce 100,000 cubic meters of clean water daily. This supply will support industrial users and port operations to meet regional water demand. To ensure reliable power, the development will feature 250 MW of floating solar capacity. The use of floating solar panels allows for electricity generation on water surfaces, which optimizes land use in regions where available space is constrained.

Sustainability and Storage Integration

To maintain a consistent energy flow, the site will incorporate a 100 MWh battery energy storage system. This storage capacity is designed to manage excess electricity generated by the installation. Furthermore, the site will house a 50 MW green hydrogen production unit. By utilizing renewable energy for green hydrogen production, the facility aims to support future industrial and clean energy needs.

Long-Term Economic and Environmental Impact

The integration of renewable energy, water treatment, battery storage, and green hydrogen production is expected to improve overall operational efficiency. This approach seeks to provide a dependable supply of clean water and electricity for industries. The implementation of this infrastructure involves collaboration between technology providers, engineering firms, financial institutions, and energy developers to support ongoing industrial expansion.