Cairo, Egypt – Egypt and Saudi Arabia are making significant strides in their ambitious power grid interconnection project. The project, which aims to exchange up to 3,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity between the two nations, is currently 60% complete and is expected to be fully operational by early 2026.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly confirmed on Thursday that the first phase of the project, with a capacity of 1,500 MW, is progressing as scheduled. Upon its completion, the second phase, also with a capacity of 1,500 MW, will immediately commence.

The project, a joint venture between three international companies, involves the construction of three high-voltage transformer stations: two in Saudi Arabia (Madinah and Tabuk) and one in Egypt (Badr City). These stations will be connected by approximately 1,350 kilometers of overhead transmission lines and marine cables.

The power grid interconnection is expected to bring numerous benefits to both countries. By capitalizing on the disparity in peak load times, the project aims to maximize the utilization of generation capacities, reduce fuel consumption, and optimize network operations.

Furthermore, the project lays the foundation for a future Arab power grid, connecting the two largest electrical networks in the region.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]