Kuwait saves 900 megawatts with efficiency measures to avert summer blackouts

The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, Dr. Adel Al-Zamil, announced that Kuwait has successfully saved 900 megawatts of electricity through six key measures designed to ensure a stable power supply this summer and reduce the risk of outages.

Speaking during an inspection of the ministry’s energy awareness campaign at 360 Mall, Al-Zamil said the most impactful step was the crackdown on illegal cryptocurrency mining, which significantly eased pressure on the grid. The ministry also coordinated with heavy industries to shift operations away from peak hours, enhancing system efficiency, reports Al-Rai daily.

Other initiatives included introducing two new energy conservation and suburban cooling codes, modernizing aging thermal power plants by transitioning to gas-fired combined cycle stations, and boosting the use of renewable energy. Enhanced plant maintenance and improved utilization of the Gulf interconnection further supported savings.

Al-Zamil noted that consumption in Kuwait remains unusually high, with citizens using 35% more electricity and nearly double the water compared to neighboring countries, despite similar climates. He emphasized the importance of embedding a culture of conservation.

Despite aging infrastructure and extreme temperatures, recent performance during 51°C heatwaves showed promising signs.

Al-Zamil expressed optimism about passing this and the next two summers without interruptions. He also revealed plans to boost power generation by 75% through major projects expected to add 14,000 megawatts by 2029–2030.