Egypt, Saudi Arabia go ahead with $1.8 B interconnector

Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mahmoud Essmat has reiterated his commitment to completing the Saudi-Egypt interconnector project. The project is expected to be operational in two phases, with the first phase scheduled to begin in July 2025. It is set to be fully operational by early 2026 and is estimated to cost $1.8 billion.

“There is agreement, cooperation, and coordination between Egypt and Saudi Arabia on the necessity of bringing the electricity interconnection line into service and connecting it to the unified network in both countries by early summer. The project is one of the most important factors in ensuring network stability without the need for additional fuel to operate power plants, allowing for network reserve capacity during peak demand. The project aims to facilitate the exchange of 3000 MW,” Essmat explained.

He further emphasised the project’s potential to become a cornerstone for future Arab interconnection, pointing to its positive impact on the stability and continuity of electricity supply between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, along with significant economic and developmental returns. He added that both Egypt will continue to work to improve the quality of electricity supply, enhance service levels, maintain the stability of the unified national network, and add new clean energy capabilities to reduce dependence on traditional fuels.