
Kuwait aims for 50% renewable energy use by 2050: Minister
KUWAIT CITY, May 11: Kuwait is aiming for 50% of its electricity to come from renewable sources by 2050, Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy Resources Dr. Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem announced on Sunday.
Speaking at the opening of the Kuwait Sustainable Energy Conference and Accompanying Exhibition, Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem emphasized the country's commitment to renewable energy, highlighting the hosting of the Regional Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (RCREEE) as a testament to Kuwait's leadership in the sector.
The minister noted that global environmental and economic challenges necessitate investment in renewable energy, describing such initiatives as both a necessity and an opportunity. He reaffirmed Kuwait's dedication to developing eco-friendly projects utilizing clean energy and seeking regional and international partnerships in this endeavor.
Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem called for a unified global strategy based on cooperation and the exchange of expertise to find practical and innovative solutions for cleaner energy resources.
Ahmad Al-Dosari, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for RCREEE, praised the conference as a significant platform for discussions on renewable energy resources. He commended Kuwait for its efforts in renewable energy, which align with the country's Vision 2035 for development.
Dr. Bahjat AbulNasr, representative of the Arab League Secretary General and head of its energy department, stated that the conference provides an opportunity for regional and international partners to exchange views and ideas on renewable energy usage. He affirmed the Arab League's support to ensure the conference's success, including workshops and training courses held alongside the event.
Dr. Grammenos Mastrojeni, Senior Deputy Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean, emphasized that renewable energy is not only an environmental measure but also a means to sustain the world and protect it from climate change. He stressed the importance of global cooperation to produce energy that safeguards both the environment and people from natural catastrophes.
Dr. Torkild Byg, deputy head of the EU Mission to Kuwait, commended Kuwait's significant role in renewable energy, noting that the conference reflects the country's stance on the issue. He also mentioned Europe's commitment to achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The conference, which began on Sunday, will continue until May 13, featuring workshops and sessions led by local and international experts, alongside an accompanying exhibition.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

Kuwait Times
5 hours ago
- Kuwait Times
Gulf Bank launches ‘Start Smart' campaign for Kuwaitis: Cash gift of up to KD 1,200
Exclusive benefits for salary transfers KUWAIT: Gulf Bank has rolled out an exclusive offer for Kuwaiti citizens under the slogan 'Start Smart.' As part of this campaign, customers who transfer their salaries to Gulf Bank can receive a cash gift of up to KD 1,200, along with a variety of benefits aimed at unlocking new opportunities and supporting them in achieving their goals, step by step. Gulf Bank salary account holders will enjoy a comprehensive suite of benefits, including automatic enrollment in Kuwait's fastest rewards program, which allows them to redeem points for cash, book flights, hotels, and car rentals, as well as shop through one of the region's pioneering bank-exclusive e-commerce platforms. The offer also features exclusive discounts at leading car dealerships, including 0 percent interest on select vehicles. Eligible customers can apply for a personal loan of up to KD 25,000 repayable over five years, as well as a housing loan of up to KD 70,000 with a repayment period of up to 15 years. Additionally, the offer features a one-year safe deposit box rental and a lifetime credit card. This offer is available to Kuwaiti employees in the government, semi-government, and oil sectors, as well as newly hired Kuwaitis or those transferring their salaries to Gulf Bank, provided their monthly salary exceeds KD 600. Additionally, the bank offers customized packages tailored specifically for employees of select government and semi-government institutions. Gulf Bank is committed to meeting the expectations of its salary account customers by understanding their needs and offering the most competitive benefits in the banking sector. This reflects the Bank's continuous dedication to rewarding its customers and supporting them in achieving their goals. To assist individuals interested in transferring their salaries, Gulf Bank will have a booth at Al-Kout Mall in Fahaheel from Thursday through Saturday, running until May 31, 2025. Bank representatives will be available on-site to answer questions and showcase the wide range of benefits offered to Kuwaiti salary account holders through this campaign. Customers can also open a salary account or transfer their salary in just minutes via the Gulf Bank mobile app, which ensures a seamless banking experience with straightforward processes and transparent, innovative solutions. Gulf Bank aims to be Kuwait's leading bank, fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace to deliver exceptional customer service while contributing sustainably to the community. Through its extensive branch network and innovative digital services, the Bank empowers customers to conduct banking transactions conveniently and efficiently, ensuring a seamless experience. In alignment with Kuwait Vision 2035, and its commitment to fostering collaborative partnerships, Gulf Bank is dedicated to driving robust sustainability initiatives across environmental, social and governance (ESG) dimensions. The Bank is committed to implementing strategically selected and diverse sustainability programs both internally and externally.

Kuwait Times
8 hours ago
- Kuwait Times
Saudis in ‘difficult' talks to keep Ronaldo next season: PIF source
RIYADH: Saudi officials are in 'difficult' talks to keep Cristiano Ronaldo in the country, a source with knowledge of the negotiations told AFP on Thursday, after the star footballer suggested he was leaving Al-Nassr. The Portuguese superstar, whose arrival in 2023 heralded a rush of late-career players to the oil-rich country, could transfer to Al-Hilal and feature at the upcoming Club World Club, the source said. 'There is an ongoing difficult negotiation to convince Ronaldo to stay and play' in the Saudi Pro League next season, said the source from the Public Investment Fund (PIF), a major investor in Saudi football. 'First option is a transfer to Al-Hilal with an opportunity to feature in the FIFA Club World Cup or to Asia champion Al-Ahli,' the source added. The oil-funded PIF, the sovereign wealth fund behind a number of big-ticket Saudi investments, controls a group of Pro League clubs including Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli. Ronaldo posted 'This chapter is over' hours after the Saudi Pro League wrapped up this week with Al-Nassr finishing third and trophyless once again. A special transfer window opens from June 1-10 to allow the 32 teams involved in the newly expanded Club World Cup to sign players. Last week, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said 'there are discussions' over the former United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Sporting Lisbon star playing at the tournament in the United States from June 14. Portuguese forward Ronaldo, 40, joined Al-Nassr in early 2023 from Manchester United and his contract expires at the end of next month. 'Ronaldo's presence is a key factor in developing the Saudi league in the last two years and a half. He opens the door for elite and young players to come to Saudi Arabia,' the PIF source said. Ronaldo's announcement comes just months after Brazilian star Neymar ended his injury-plagued 18-month stay in January, after playing just seven times for Al-Hilal -- on a reported salary of around $104 million a year. Although Ronaldo was the Pro League's top scorer with 25 goals, he has been unable to win a Saudi or continental trophy with Al-Nassr, who lost in the Asian Champions League semi-finals last month. Last year, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner said he could end his career with Al-Nassr, the Riyadh team favored by a number of Saudi royals. Meanwhile, Ronaldo's great rival Lionel Messi will play at the Club World Cup with Inter Miami. During a recent interview with YouTuber and streamer IShowSpeed, Infantino said: 'And Ronaldo might play for one of the teams as well at the Club World Cup. 'There are discussions with some clubs, so if any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo for the Club World Cup... who knows, who knows.' Saudi Arabia has shaken up football by spending heavily on stars from Europe, starting with Ronaldo's move, and the desert nation will host the World Cup in 2034. — AFP

Kuwait Times
14 hours ago
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait in talks to chair committee to combat digital misinformation
Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) council representatives meet in Kuwait KUWAIT: Kuwait is in discussions to lead a multilateral committee to combat digital disinformation, aiming to unify Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) member states' efforts in countering fake news and safeguarding digital content integrity, Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar said following a key meeting of the DCO. DCO is a global multilateral body established in 2020 and headquartered in Saudi Arabia. It brings together governments, the private sector, international organizations, NGOs and civil society to enable more inclusive digital transformation and the growth of digital industries. Members include Bahrain, Bangladesh, Cyprus, Djibouti, The Gambia, Ghana, Greece, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Rwanda and Saudi Arabia. Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar and DCO Secretary-General Deemah Al-Yahya attend a DCO Council meeting chaired by Kuwait. Wednesday's meeting is the first of its kind since Kuwait assumed the rotating presidency of the DCO Council after the fourth General Assembly held in Jordan last February. 'This exceptional meeting represents a milestone in establishing coordinated efforts between member states to overcome digital challenges and promote integrity in digital content,' said Al-Omar. Al-Omar added that the adoption of Kuwait as the host country for the next DCO General Assembly underscores its leadership role in advancing regional and international digital cooperation. DCO Secretary-General Deemah Al-Yahya praised Kuwait's initiative to host the extraordinary meeting, saying it reflects Kuwait's serious commitment to joint digital action and its leadership in strengthening the organization's institutional structure. 'This meeting is a strategic step in advancing our shared digital agenda and expanding the organization's impact in supporting emerging digital economies,' Al-Yahya said. During her visit to Kuwait, Al-Yahya, who is also Member of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property, and her accompanying delegation met with His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of Kuwait, at Bayan Palace. The meeting was attended by Minister Al-Omar, and Head of the Prime Minister's Diwan, Abdulaziz Dakhil Al-Dakhil. — Agencies