Solar Initiative Targets 1,000 MW to Power 7,000 Factories

The government is planning solar power plants with a combined capacity of 1,000 megawatts to supply around 7,000 factories under the Shams El-Senaa initiative, with the programme aimed at lowering industrial electricity costs and expanding renewable energy use.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly reviewed implementation mechanisms with Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mahmoud Esmat, directing that later phases be extended beyond factories to government buildings and other facilities.

Madbouly said the initiative is intended to diversify energy sources, reduce production costs, improve industrial competitiveness and support the localisation of solar manufacturing. He also stressed the need for efficient operation and maintenance, including regular inspections of panels, transformers, connection systems and control equipment, backed by specialised technical training.

Esmat said the programme is expected to reduce factories’ electricity bills and natural gas consumption while supporting production efficiency and export competitiveness. He added that the initiative should also increase local content in renewable energy components and strengthen related industrial value chains.

A separate nationwide project is also being prepared to install solar power systems on government building rooftops. Both programmes form part of the national energy strategy to increase the share of renewables in the energy mix and improve electricity-use efficiency.