The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

(Image credit: Reuters/Amr Abdallah Dalsh)

Egypt’s future for renewable energy is getting brighter, as Benban solar plant, near Aswan, completed its second phase last month. The $2.1 billion project is expected to supply Egypt with 1.5 GW, which compares to 90% of the High Dam’s power, according to Sky News. The plant stretches over 37KM² in the desert, and it will generate electricity for over a million houses.

(Via Reuters/Amr Abdallah Dalsh)

Christopher Cantelmi from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), who is a lead backer of Benban, said to Reuters that there are plans to invest in renewable energy across the Red Sea (wind power), and throughout the deserts for solar power.

Over 30 companies from a dozen countries had a hand in developing Benban’s 32 plots. These countries include Spain, UAE, Italy, France, China, and Norway. Cantelmi said that this project introduced Egypt, for the very first time, to some of these companies.

(Via Reuters/Amr Abdallah Dalsh)

Professor of Power Electronics at Aswan University, Mohamed Orabi, stated that Benban has improved Egypt’s south economically, as it decreased the price of solar energy. On the other hand, he added that a storage system is required to be available at the plant.

Operations on the plant are proceeding effectively. By 2022, Egypt’s electric capacity by renewals should reach 20%, and 42% by 2035.

(Via Reuters/Amr Abdallah Dalsh)

(Via Reuters/Amr Abdallah Dalsh)