Cairo: Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mahmoud Esmat recently engaged in discussions with a delegation from the World Bank, led by Senior Energy Specialist Yousra Assaker. The talks focused on collaboration and partnership in upcoming projects, including advisory services related to renewable energy projects, energy mix strategy, and increasing reliance on renewable energy sources.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the ministry issued a statement on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, highlighting the meeting's review of cooperation in supporting and upgrading the unified power grid. The discussions included optimal expansion plans for generation capacities to meet rising electricity demand and securing financing for renewable electricity generation projects. This aligns with Egypt's national energy strategy, which targets a 45 percent share of renewables in the energy mix by 2028.
The conversation also addressed models used for forecasting future electricity loads and expected energy demand, alongside electricity storage technologies aimed at ensuring grid stability and reliable power supply. Plans to reduce power losses, environmental and social impact assessment projects, capacity-building, workforce training programs, digital transformation, and transitioning to a smart grid were also discussed.
Further talks included restructuring plans and electricity interconnection projects, positioning Egypt as a regional energy hub and a bridge for energy exchange between Africa, Asia, and Europe. Esmat commended the cooperation with the World Bank, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts to exchange expertise, enhance innovation in renewable energy technologies, overcome financing challenges, and strengthen the power grid.
Esmat highlighted the World Bank's supportive role in electricity interconnection projects, affirming Egypt's commitment to becoming a regional energy hub linking African, European, and Asian energy markets. This is facilitated by Egypt's strategic location and infrastructure projects. He mentioned interconnection projects with Greece and Italy, and existing projects with neighboring countries such as Sudan, Libya, and Jordan. Additionally, an ongoing interconnection project with Saudi Arabia is set to become operational this year.
The minister noted that these projects aim to achieve regional energy integration and enhance grid stability, generating economic benefits for all participating countries. He also mentioned restructuring measures, such as separating the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company as an independent grid operator, implemented according to clear economic standards and regulations.
Esmat emphasized ongoing efforts to separate electricity generation from distribution, maximize returns from available assets, expand reliance on renewable energy, reduce fossil fuel use, and curb carbon emissions. He underlined efforts to attract further investments, open the sector to local and foreign private investors, and support investment in renewable and clean energy projects. Private investment currently leads Egypt's solar and wind energy sectors.