Grievances Committee halts Kuwait smart meter tender process amid dispute

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy has been instructed to pause the tendering process for the development, management, and operation of Kuwait’s smart meter system, following a directive from the Central Agency for Public Tenders based on a ruling by the Council of Ministers’ Grievances Committee.

Informed sources revealed that the ministry had completed its technical evaluation and recommended awarding the contract to the lowest bidder.

However, the Central Agency for Public Tenders did not endorse this recommendation, prompting the bidding company to file a formal grievance. The Grievances Committee responded by ordering a suspension of all tender procedures until the matter is resolved, reports Al-Rai daily.

The smart meter project is designed to modernize Kuwait’s energy infrastructure, improve data accuracy and reliability, and facilitate more efficient consumption management. In addition to boosting operational efficiency and expediting response to technical malfunctions, the project seeks to integrate advanced global practices in smart grid management and digital transformation initiatives.

Officials noted that the contract also covers the operation and maintenance of the communication network connecting smart meters to central systems.

This integration is expected to enable real-time monitoring, enhance data analysis capabilities, and ultimately improve service quality for consumers throughout Kuwait.

The suspension underscores the procedural safeguards in Kuwait’s procurement system, ensuring that grievances and disputes are addressed before critical infrastructure projects proceed.