The Egyptian government has announced plans to establish solar power plants with a combined capacity of 1,000 megawatts to supply approximately 7,000 factories. This initiative, dubbed "Shams El-Senaa" or "Sun of Industry," aims to expand renewable energy use and reduce electricity costs for industrial facilities. The program was launched in line with the recommendations of Egypt Forum 2026, which called for initiatives to increase reliance on new and renewable energy sources.
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly met with Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mahmoud Esmat on November 2 to discuss the implementation mechanisms of the initiative. Madbouly emphasized that the program has the attention of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and is part of a broader drive to expand the use of new and renewable energy. The initiative aims to lower energy costs for industry, diversify energy sources, and strengthen the competitiveness of Egyptian industry.
The prime minister stressed the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of solar panel equipment, transformers, connection systems, and control equipment. This includes ensuring the upkeep of equipment to guarantee efficient operation. Madbouly also highlighted the need to maximize local content and support industrial value chains.
Minister Esmat stated that the initiative would help reduce factories' electricity bills and natural gas consumption, improving production efficiency and bolstering the ability of Egyptian products to compete in local and global markets. The program is expected to boost the localization of renewable energy component manufacturing and improve export opportunities.
Esmat disclosed that the government is working with relevant ministries and authorities to expand renewable energy use, improve energy efficiency, and rationalize electricity consumption. The "Shams El-Senaa" initiative is part of the national energy strategy and the state's energy transition plan, which aims to increase the share of renewables in the energy mix.
In addition to the "Shams El-Senaa" initiative, the government is coordinating with ministries and bodies nationwide on a separate project to generate solar electricity using the rooftops of government buildings. This project aims to promote the use of renewable energy sources and improve energy efficiency.
The Egyptian government is committed to increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix and improving the efficiency of electricity consumption. The "Shams El-Senaa" initiative and other programs are expected to support industrial value chains, improve export opportunities, and contribute to the country's economic growth.
Key points
- Egypt plans to establish solar power plants with a 1,000-megawatt capacity to supply 7,000 factories under the "Shams El-Senaa" initiative.
- The initiative aims to reduce factories' electricity bills and natural gas consumption, improving production efficiency and competitiveness.
- The program is part of Egypt's national energy strategy and energy transition plan to increase the share of renewables in the energy mix.
