Egypt is embarking on an ambitious journey to develop a groundbreaking 3.2 GW hybrid wind and solar power project in the Suez Governorate, signaling the nation’s first combined renewable energy plant. This collaborative effort between TAQA Arabia, Voltalia, and the Egyptian Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy aims to simultaneously integrate 1.1 GW of wind power and 2.1 GW of solar energy into Egypt’s energy mix. The new plant will be strategically located in Zafarana, approximately 130 km southeast of Cairo, and it will replace the existing 545 MW wind capacity with modern technology while substantially expanding its total capacity.
To ensure the project’s feasibility, a year-long assessment will be conducted to meticulously analyze wind patterns, solar radiation, environmental impacts, and bird migration in the area. Should the study yield favorable results, Zafarana has the potential to become a global model for similar renewable energy projects. This initiative aligns with Egypt’s national energy strategy of achieving 42% renewable energy by 2035 and its international commitments under the Paris Agreement. At present, around 12% of Egypt’s electricity is sourced from renewables, with 7% coming from hydro and 5% from wind and solar sources.
The project is anticipated to create numerous job opportunities, significantly enhance Egypt’s energy infrastructure, and support the country’s ambition to diversify its energy mix. Moreover, this initiative underscores Egypt’s commitment to meeting the growing domestic energy demand and reinforcing its position as a regional energy hub. By focusing on the integration of hybrid renewable technologies, Egypt is setting a benchmark for future projects while also fostering sustainability in the region. The successful completion of the Zafarana project could indeed serve as a model for other nations looking to adopt similar renewable energy strategies in the future.
