Kuwait eyes double-capacity power plant to replace Doha East station
Kuwait is preparing to replace the historic Doha East Power and Water Distillation Station with a next-generation facility that will deliver twice its current capacity, as part of a long-term strategy to modernize the country’s electricity sector and secure future energy needs.
Kuwait is preparing for a major transformation of its power generation infrastructure, with plans to eventually replace the historic Doha East Power and Water Distillation Station with a modern facility capable of producing twice its current output.
Doha East Station Manager Eng. Othman Al-Otaibi revealed that the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy has developed a long-term strategy to gradually retire the existing Doha East and Shuaiba stations and construct advanced replacement facilities at their locations.
The planned project will form part of Kuwait’s broader energy development strategy, with new generation projects such as the Al-Zour North and Al-Khairan power plant phases, along with the Shagaya Renewable Energy Complex, expected to support the national grid during the transition period.
Al-Otaibi described Doha East Station as one of Kuwait’s most important energy facilities and a cornerstone of the country’s electricity and water supply network.
Established in 1977, the station remains among Kuwait’s oldest power generation plants but continues to play a vital role in supporting national electricity demand.
The facility currently consists of seven steam turbine units, each producing 150 megawatts, bringing its total generation capacity to 1,050 megawatts.
The station also operates seven water distillation units, each producing approximately six million imperial gallons of fresh water daily, with a combined output of 42 million imperial gallons per day.
Al-Otaibi said the station is currently undergoing a comprehensive rehabilitation program aimed at extending the operational efficiency of its turbines and generating units.
The project has reached around 50 percent completion, with remaining work scheduled during the upcoming winter maintenance period.
Highlighting the importance of modern technology, he said the facility has also strengthened its cybersecurity infrastructure in line with the directives of the National Cybersecurity Center.
Existing operational control systems have been upgraded with advanced platforms designed to protect critical networks from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
The station manager emphasized that infrastructure development must be accompanied by greater public awareness on the importance of conserving electricity and water resources.
The planned replacement of Doha East Station reflects Kuwait’s long-term vision to modernize its energy sector, increase generation capacity, strengthen grid reliability and meet future demand through more efficient and sustainable power solutions.
