Egypt is advancing its renewable energy goals with a bold plan to develop 10 gigawatts of capacity by 2028 under its National Platform for the NWFE Program. Announced during the inauguration of the Abydos 1 Solar Power Plant in Aswan, the initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing the country’s sustainable energy landscape. The program actively focuses on increasing renewable energy production, cutting dependence on thermal power plants, and driving the objectives of Egypt’s National Climate Change Strategy 2050.
The Abydos 1 Solar Power Plant, with a capacity of 560 megawatts, is a flagship project within this effort. It was inaugurated in the presence of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badr, and Governor of Aswan Major General Ismail Kamal.
The project, executed by AMEA Power, a subsidiary of Al Nowais Group from the UAE, was funded through international partnerships with institutions such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Dutch Development Bank (FMO).
Speaking at the event, Al-Mashat highlighted the energy component of the NWFE Program, which aims to decommission 5 gigawatts of thermal power plants while attracting $10 billion in investments to develop renewable energy projects. These efforts, spanning from 2023 to 2028, align with Egypt’s goal to increase renewable energy’s share in its energy mix to 42% by 2030.
The initiative also supports Egypt’s nationally determined contributions to global climate goals.
Al-Mashat praised the program’s innovative approach to financing, which leverages blended finance mechanisms to attract private sector participation.
Since its launch in 2022, the NWFE Program has mobilized over $4.5 billion in concessional financing, adding 4.7 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity. The program is expected to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 17 million tons annually and save $1.2 billion in fuel costs each year by replacing thermal power plants with clean energy sources.
The Abydos project reflects Egypt’s growing capabilities in renewable energy, supported by structural and legislative reforms implemented since 2014. These efforts have positioned Egypt as a regional hub for renewable energy, enabling it to meet domestic energy needs while advancing cross-border electricity initiatives.
The NWFE Program has received international recognition as a model for green investment. During COP29, 12 multilateral development banks issued a joint statement commending the program for its effectiveness in driving climate action and promoting sustainable development. The Abydos solar power plant, alongside other NWFE projects like the Amounet Wind Farm in Ras Ghareb, demonstrates Egypt’s commitment to transitioning to a low-carbon economy while fostering international collaboration.
Egypt is forging ahead in its renewable energy journey, with the NWFE Program showcasing the nation’s commitment to a sustainable, resilient, and green future. By developing 10 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2028, the country is actively reducing its environmental impact, boosting economic growth, and solidifying its leadership in the global clean energy transition.
