KUWAIT: As Kuwait grapples with an intense heat wave pushing temperatures above 50°C, the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy has urged citizens and residents to actively conserve electricity to help maintain the stability of the country’s power grid and avoid potential scheduled outages. In a statement released Sunday, ministry spokesperson Fatima Jawhar Hayat emphasized the importance of public cooperation during this critical period. “We call on citizens and residents to cooperate and actively participate in conserving electricity consumption during this period to help ensure the continuity of vital services and avoid the need for operational measures such as scheduled power cuts,” she said.

Cuts used as last resort

The warning comes as meteorological authorities confirmed Kuwait remains under the influence of a seasonal Indian low-pressure system, bringing extremely hot air masses and causing temperatures to soar. Acting Director of the Meteorological Department Dhirar Al-Ali told KUNA on Sunday that temperatures reached 51°C in Rabiya and Jahra, and 50°C in Abdally and at Kuwait International Airport.

Al-Ali added that “the country is currently experiencing extremely hot daytime conditions and hot to warm nights,” with the heat expected to persist through Monday. He also forecast strong northwesterly winds later in the week, likely bringing dusty conditions and high sea waves.

With electricity demand expected to rise alongside the temperature, the ministry is closely monitoring conditions and may implement cuts measures if needed. Hayat explained that scheduled power cuts are an operational tool used “only in extreme cases, when necessary, to maintain the stability and efficiency of the country’s power grid.”

Conservation tips

As part of its conservation drive, the ministry published practical tips on its official Instagram account to help the public reduce consumption. They include avoiding the use of non-essential electrical appliances during peak hours between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm. The ministry also recommended raising the thermostat temperature in unused rooms or areas, as air conditioning is the primary driver of electricity consumption during the summer months.

Hayat underscored the ministry’s commitment to transparency and its intention to notify the public of any decisions regarding load management or supply adjustments via official channels. “We urge everyone to rely on trustworthy sources for news and avoid spreading rumors or inaccurate information,” she added. She clarified that such measures are not a result of any damage to the electrical system or the current regional situation. “These measures are not new... they have been applied in previous years during periods of high temperatures and elevated power demand.” People in Kuwait are encouraged to stay updated through the official websites and social media accounts of the Meteorological Department and the ministry, as well as the government’s “Sahel” app. — KUNA