Saudi Egypt Power is about to take a major step forward as the electricity interconnection project nears operation. Egyptian Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, confirmed that trial operations are already underway. The interconnection is expected to begin full operations in the coming weeks, marking a historic milestone for the region.
The project will strengthen grid stability and improve electricity service quality in both countries. It will also allow a higher reliance on renewable energy and reduce overall fuel consumption. Minister Esmat described the interconnection as an “energy bridge” that will enhance strategic cooperation and promote economic integration between Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
Saudi Egypt Power will connect the grids through three high-voltage converter stations. Two of these stations are in eastern and northwestern Saudi Arabia, while the third is located in Badr City, east of Cairo. The project spans 1,350 kilometers of transmission lines, including both overhead lines and submarine cables across the Red Sea.
By linking the two grids, the interconnection will enable the countries to exchange up to 3,000 megawatts. Minister Esmat noted that the project will optimize differences in peak electricity demand, allowing more efficient use of generation capacity. This will support cost-effective operation and better grid management for both nations.
Saudi Electricity Company secured a $566 million export credit agency-supported Islamic financing facility in October 2022. This funding allowed construction and infrastructure development for the first large-scale, high-voltage direct-current interconnection in the Middle East and North Africa.
Officials emphasize that the interconnection will also facilitate greater regional energy collaboration. It sets a precedent for future cross-border projects in the electricity sector. The combined grids will allow both countries to better integrate renewable sources, such as solar and wind, into their energy mix.
As the project moves toward full operation, experts expect it will improve the resilience of both countries’ power systems. It also signals growing economic and strategic ties in the region. Saudi Egypt Power could serve as a model for similar initiatives across the Middle East and North Africa.
The interconnection project demonstrates how infrastructure investments can strengthen energy security and sustainability. By exchanging electricity efficiently, both nations will reduce operational costs and increase the reliability of supply. Saudi Egypt Power is expected to play a key role in regional energy development for decades to come.
