RIYADH: Egypt’s New and Renewable Energy Authority signed an agreement with Japan’s Yurtec Co. and local partners to build a 20-megawatt solar plant and battery facility in Hurghada. 

The consortium, which also includes Egypt’s Solar Installer and REDCON Construction, will develop a 30-MWh battery energy storage system alongside the solar farm, the authority said in a statement.  

The project is part of cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency and aligns with Egypt’s plan to raise renewable energy’s share of total power generation to over 42 percent by 2030 and 60 percent by 2040. 

It is also aligned with the North African country’s National Energy Strategy, which aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, protect the environment, and boost economic returns. 

Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, said: “We are working with international partners to promote the use of renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, and diversify energy sources.”  

He added: “We have an ambitious program to maximize the utilization of new and renewable energy resources… and the state has created an enabling investment environment to support the private sector and attract further investments.”  

The agreement was signed by NREA Chairman Ehab Ismail and Yurtec representative Osamu Sakagami, in the presence of Japan’s Ambassador to Egypt Fumio Iwai, JICA Egypt Chief Representative Yu Ibisawa, and other senior officials. 

The Hurghada facility is expected to generate about 48,000 MW hours of electricity annually — 36,000 MWh from the solar plant and 12,000 MWh from the storage system. It is also projected to cut carbon dioxide emissions by around 26,400 tonnes per year. 

The agreement also covers the establishment of an eco-friendly information and training center adjacent to the plant, relying mainly on renewable energy sources and designed to enhance energy efficiency. 

The statement added that the center will be equipped with modern facilities, equipment, and meeting halls to promote the use of renewable energy and serve as an international training hub for professionals from both the public and private sectors. 

Esmat also praised the partnership and cooperation with JICA, adding that collaboration with the private sector is crucial for Egypt to achieve its renewable energy goals. 

The Hurghada project underscores Cairo’s push to accelerate renewable deployment and expand international partnerships, strengthening the country’s position as a regional clean-energy hub.