Kuwait Ramps Up Green Energy Drive with Smart Meters
Sources explained that the smart meters enable the ministry to remotely control and cut off power supply to schools after class hours and to mosques following prayer times—an initiative aimed at curbing unnecessary electricity consumption. The move reflects the commitment of Minister Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem and senior officials to promoting energy efficiency, particularly during peak demand periods.
In a separate development, Undersecretary Dr. Adel Al-Zamel took part in the opening session of the Kuwait Sustainable Energy Conference, held under the theme 'High-Level Dialogue on Regional Policies: Collaborative Pathways for Renewable Energy Solutions and Gateways for Hydrogen Trade.'
The session highlighted Kuwait's national priorities in renewable energy development and hydrogen utilization. Attendees reviewed the recently signed agreement with China's State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) to advance the Shagaya and Abdaliya renewable energy projects, which aim to generate over 3,000 megawatts of electricity.
Dr. Al-Zamel stated that Kuwait's renewable energy capacity is projected to reach 4,800 megawatts by 2029, leveraging various technologies. He emphasized that the region's transition to clean energy must support both economic growth and national interests. He identified green and blue hydrogen development as key opportunities, pointing to the region's abundant renewable and hydrocarbon resources as strategic assets in the energy transformation process.
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He expressed optimism about the new partnership with Saudi Arabia's ACWA Power, indicating this is the first of several other projects; such as the Khairan Phase One project and Shagaya Phases Three and Four solar and renewable energy projects, which are among the largest in the world. He revealed that 'in the next three years; we will witness the commencement of production from these projects, the expansion of the electricity grid, and the provision of better electricity and water services.' He said the first unit in the North Zour project will be operational in June 2028; followed by an additional 1,000 megawatts two months later. He added work is underway with ACWA Power to expedite the operation of the units and to overcome obstacles. He stated that the energy partnership projects include a roadmap to achieve zero carbon emission; affirming that the North Zour Phase Two and Three are among these projects, as well as the planned solar energy projects. 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