KUWAIT CITY, May 2: In response to concerns raised by several representatives regarding potential power outages, Engineer Maha Al-Asousi, the acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, affirmed the Ministry's preparedness to tackle the upcoming summer challenges. Al-Asousi disclosed that the Gulf Electricity Interconnection Authority has given the green light for Kuwait to receive 300 megawatts from Oman's network within the coming months, as reported by Al-Rai.

During the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Kuwait Oil Company, Al-Asousi held the Central Agency for Public Tenders responsible for disruptions in the ministry's tenders and contracts. Addressing concerns about potential scheduled power cuts, she assured the public, stating, "There will not be any strategy for scheduled power cuts during the summer. We are hopeful that weather conditions will remain favorable, as they did in the summer of 2023." Emphasizing the importance of consumption rationalization as a collective responsibility, she urged for prudent energy usage.

Regarding the agreement with Kuwait Oil Company, Al-Asousi outlined its objectives, stating, "The goal of this agreement is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and to have 30% of our energy production sourced from renewable sources. The memorandum also includes plans for the establishment of a station with a capacity of 1 gigawatt."

She further elaborated, "The agreement aims to decrease reliance on oil, subsequently reducing the budget allocated for electricity production, as well as carbon emissions. It also aims to alleviate the electrical burden on the ministry." Al-Asousi expressed hope that other companies would follow suit in embracing renewable energy to alleviate the strain on the electrical grid.

Detailing plans for the forthcoming renewable energy station, Al-Asousi emphasized the importance of conducting a comprehensive feasibility study encompassing technical, financial, and legal aspects. She highlighted that this memorandum builds upon previous collaborations between the ministry and Kuwait Oil Company, notably the "Sidra 500" renewable energy project.

The signed agreement signifies a significant step towards Kuwait's renewable energy goals, with Al-Asousi confirming that affiliated companies of Kuwait Oil Company would undertake the implementation of the station.

CEO of Kuwait Oil Company, Ahmed Al-Eidan, underscored the company's commitment to environmental sustainability, stating, "In line with global environmental standards and Kuwait's international commitments, the company is dedicated to establishing a low-carbon work environment and reducing carbon dioxide emissions resulting from petroleum industries."

Al-Eidan further elaborated on the company's roadmap for transitioning to renewable energy sources, emphasizing economic feasibility and adherence to technical standards stipulated by the Ministry of Electricity.