Power rationing hits Kuwait amidst rising temperatures
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It is known that Kuwait is among the hottest countries in the world, where the temperature reaches 50 degrees Celsius and above in our long summertime — from June to September. This is normal, and we have been used to it since more than 300 years ago. However, things changed with the discovery of oil; as refineries were built and electricity was generated.
The emergence of all types of cars, asphalt on roads, and huge buildings contributed to the gradual increase in temperature. Nowadays, we are witnessing a new level of heat at 50 degrees Celsius. With oil and wealth, we began to use all types of machines to make ourselves comfortable. The so-called discovery of air conditioners — starting from the use of electric fans to the basic air conditioning units and then the most advanced central air conditioning systems — led to our huge consumption of electricity without knowing or realizing that one day, we will run out of energy sources and we will face a shortage of electricity.
Simply, we cannot cope with the fastest growth of demand for electricity. We did not realize that we have to rationalize our consumption. The Ministry of Electrify did not advise us to be careful with our consumption, considering our electricity is the cheapest in the area and the highest consumption as well. Now, Kuwait is facing electricity shortage and crisis; hence, the need to ration power supply in almost all parts of the country. Each area has been informed to expect two hours or more power cutoff daily.
The main reason for the shortage is lack of long-term planning, as no one is paying attention to such crucial step. They are just working temporarily and nobody is taking responsibility. Since 2022 and 2023, some people have been warning about the expected shortage of electricity, but nobody paid attention; despite knowing that we need to build new power stations. Actually, the government was warned in 2022 that the country would be facing a power shortage of about 2,000 megawatts in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Nevertheless, no preparation has been done.
No plan has been approved and the ministry kept on delaying it for certain reasons, so we ended up in today’s crisis. We have nowhere to go. We have no choice but to depend on power supply from neighboring countries; asking for help and contributions as all of us are in need of electricity, especially during peak hours. What is happening to us? What is happening to our Kuwait, its long-term vision and plan? Is it going down the drain?
Yes, we have wealth and money, but we do not have electricity. We must ration power supply and monitor our clocks to see when our houses will be out of air conditioning. Certainly, this is not good news. We are facing electricity shortage and power rationalization for two hours between 11:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, if not longer. Luckily, most of the expatriates are traveling this time. But, what will happen when they return in September!!
By Kamel Al-Harami
Independent Oil Analyst
email: [email protected]
This news has been read 749 times!
