Kuwait faces potential energy shortage as action is urgently needed
Kuwait is facing a potential energy shortage in the coming years if immediate action is not taken, according to sources. Studies indicate that the country’s current generating station capacity is 18,500 megawatts, but the highest consumption recorded in 2023 was 16,900 megawatts. This shortage is attributed to the age and operational life of the existing power stations, reported Al-Qabas Daily.
It is predicted that the shortage could reach 1,000 megawatts in 2024, 2,000 megawatts in 2025, and 2,500 megawatts in 2026. The Gulf interconnection, which Kuwait relies on for additional capacity, is unlikely to cover the expected shortage due to production capacity limitations and coinciding peak loads.
The Ministry of Electricity and Water proposed seeking international developers and investors to build generation and water production plants, but this suggestion faced opposition from the Public-Private Partnership Projects Authority. The ministry has also failed to implement projects or find appropriate solutions to avoid the expected shortage.
Several quick solutions have been presented, including establishing solar energy stations, implementing gas units, installing power batteries, and using ships equipped with generators. The sources also recommended adopting the independent provider system, where investors finance, build, operate, and maintain power or water production stations.
This system would save the government capital, lower production costs, and increase competition among developers. The causes of the electricity shortage include planning and follow-up shortcomings, weak leadership qualifications, reliance on the Partnership Authority, and delays in regulatory authorities.
