Egyptians Criticize Return of Electricity Load Shedding Amid Rising Fuel Prices

Egypt has resumed its load shedding program, involving scheduled power cuts of more than two hours, in an effort to save gas amid soaring global fuel prices. The Ministry of Electricity is implementing schedules to reduce power loads across the country following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, with the aim of saving $35 million monthly.

The load shedding comes after Egypt initiated daylight saving time (DST) in April 2023, which the government claimed could help reduce power consumption by 10%. However, despite these measures, Egypt consumed record levels of electricity in July 2023, forcing the country to suspend liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports over the summer to supply its power plants.

President Abdel Fattah El Sisi stated that the power cuts could save Egypt EGP 108 billion annually. The government has also implemented other power-saving initiatives, such as reduced street lighting, limited use of air conditioning in public institutions, and regulated lighting in large sports facilities.

Why this matters: The return of electricity load shedding in Egypt highlights the challenges faced by the country in balancing its energy needs with rising global fuel prices. The impact of these power cuts on the daily lives of Egyptians and the economy underscores the importance of finding sustainable solutions to meet the nation's energy demands.

Egypt is likely to halt its LNG exports again this summer due to increased local demand and rising temperatures. While the government's power-saving measures aim to alleviate the strain on the country's energy resources, some experts question the effectiveness of DST in achieving significant energy savings and note its potential to disrupt sleep patterns.

Key Takeaways

• Egypt resumes power cuts to save gas amid soaring global fuel prices.
• Egypt consumed record electricity in July 2023, suspending LNG exports.
• Power cuts could save Egypt EGP 108 billion annually, says President El Sisi.
• Egypt's energy challenges highlight the need for sustainable solutions.
• Experts question the effectiveness of daylight saving time in achieving energy savings.