Egypt and Japan's Yurtec Partner for 20-Megawatt Solar Project in Hurghada
The New and Renewable Energy Authority of Egypt has signed an agreement with Japanese company Yurtec, alongside local partners, to build a 20-megawatt solar plant and battery facility in the city of Hurghada.
RIYADH: The Egyptian New and Renewable Energy Authority (NREA) has entered into an agreement with Japan’s Yurtec Co. and local partners for the construction of a 20-megawatt solar power plant along with a battery energy storage facility in Hurghada, according to a statement released by the authority.
The consortium involved includes Solar Installer and REDCON Construction, who will collaborate on the project.
As part of this venture, they will also establish a 30-MWh battery energy storage system alongside the solar installation.
This initiative is supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and aligns with Egypt’s ambitious plans to increase the share of renewable energy in total power generation to over 42% by 2030 and 60% by 2040.
The agreement falls within the framework of Egypt's National Energy Strategy, which seeks to reduce dependency on fossil fuels, preserve the environment, and enhance economic viability.
Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, emphasized the significance of international partnerships in advancing renewable energy use, carbon emission reduction, and diversification of energy sources.
He highlighted the government's commitment to developing an investment-friendly atmosphere that attracts further investments into the sector.
The signing ceremony was attended by NREA Chairman Ehab Ismail, Yurtec representative Osamu Sakagami, Japan’s Ambassador to Egypt Fumio Iwai, JICA Egypt Chief Representative Yu Ibisawa, and other senior officials.
This solar facility in Hurghada is expected to generate approximately 48,000 megawatt-hours of electricity annually — 36,000 MWh from the solar plant itself and an additional 12,000 MWh from the storage system.
The project aims to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 26,400 tonnes per year.
The agreement also encompasses the creation of an eco-friendly information center adjacent to the facility, utilizing renewable energy sources primarily and designed to promote energy efficiency.
This center will be equipped with modern facilities and serve as a training hub for professionals from both public and private sectors internationally.
Esmat expressed his appreciation for the partnership with JICA and stressed that collaboration with the private sector is vital in achieving Egypt’s renewable energy objectives.
The Hurghada solar project exemplifies Egypt's efforts to expedite renewable energy deployment, strengthen international partnerships, and solidify its position as a regional clean-energy leader.