KUWAIT: Kuwait plans to begin implementing the Shagaya renewable energy project this year, with a total electricity production capacity of 4,800 megawatts — representing around 26 to 27 percent of the country’s total power output, Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy Dr Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem announced on Sunday.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Kuwait Sustainable Energy Conference, Al-Mukhaizeem said the project will be developed in phases, some through Kuwait’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Authority, and others in cooperation with the Chinese government. Kuwait signed an agreement with China in March to implement renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of approximately 3,500 megawatts.

A Chinese delegation arrived in Kuwait on Sunday and is scheduled to visit the project site. The minister expressed hope that the Shagaya project will be operational by 2028. He added that the financial cost of the project is still under study.

Al-Mukhaizeem stressed that achieving a balanced energy mix is among Kuwait’s strategic priorities, with a goal of generating 50 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2050. This vision aligns with the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and supports Kuwait’s commitment to sustainable development. “In light of accelerating environmental and economic challenges, investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency is no longer just a technical option — it has become a necessity,” he said. Kuwait continues to expand its clean energy projects and diversify energy sources, while enhancing regional and international partnerships to stabilize power grids, strengthen national economies and promote a long-term culture of sustainability.

The minister called for joint initiatives, strategic cooperation, knowledge exchange, and innovative solutions in the energy sector.

Al-Mukhaizeem also highlighted the importance of the conference coinciding with Kuwait assuming the presidency of the Regional Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (RCREEE), which reflects regional and global trust in Kuwait’s leadership in energy transformation.

RCREEE Chairman Ahmad Al-Dosari said the conference is a key platform for regional dialogue on the future of energy and praised Kuwait’s efforts to diversify its energy mix in line with Kuwait 2035 vision and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He noted the center’s role in providing technical support, coordinating policy and building regional capacity.

Dr Bahjat Abu Al-Nasr, Director of the Energy Department at the Arab League, emphasized the conference as a regional platform for decision-makers and experts to discuss the latest trends and innovations in renewable energy, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Arab League. He reaffirmed the League’s commitment to supporting the energy transition through partnerships with RCREEE.

Dr Torkild Byg, Deputy Head of the European Union Mission in Kuwait, reiterated the importance of transitioning to a renewable energy-driven and sustainable future. He commended Kuwait’s progress and emphasized the EU’s goal to be the first carbon-neutral continent by 2050 through international partnerships and innovation.

Dr Grammenos Mastrojeni, First Deputy Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean, stressed that sustainable energy requires comprehensive studies and cooperation, especially as climate change continues to impact Mediterranean countries. He underlined the need for joint efforts in addressing energy, food, and water security challenges.

The three-day conference features panel discussions and interactive workshops with local and international experts. Al-Mukhaizeem also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing renewable energy technologies and solutions aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing waste. – Agencies