Minister Boushehri Emphasizes Innovation and Cooperation for a Sustainable Future
KUWAIT CITY – Kuwait’s Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, Dr. Mahmoud Boushehri, stressed the importance of innovation, strategic partnerships, and comprehensive planning to drive the transformation of the country’s energy sector. Speaking at the 24th meeting of the Regional Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, which was hosted by Kuwait, the Minister highlighted the country’s commitment to advancing regional cooperation in energy and supporting sustainable development.
This meeting, held in Kuwait for the first time, brought together representatives from Arab countries at a time when the adoption of clean energy technologies and energy efficiency are critical to sustainable growth. Minister Boushehri explained that the event’s objective is to promote sustainable energy systems and efficient energy use, which are essential to achieving global sustainable development goals.
He also underscored the necessity of focusing on plans aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions to reach carbon neutrality. Energy efficiency, he noted, is vital for environmental protection. The Minister recognized the role of the Regional Center in fostering renewable energy practices and energy efficiency across Arab nations by offering expertise and policy recommendations.
During the meeting, Dr. Boushehri announced that Kuwait will host the Kuwait Sustainable Energy Week from May 11 to 13. This event, organized by the Regional Center, will gather regional and international stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. He expressed optimism that the event would become a leading platform for collaboration, showcasing innovations, and exchanging insights on sustainable energy solutions.
The discussions at the meeting will focus on renewable energy, particularly integrating traditional and renewable energy sources, with the aim of achieving a 30-50% renewable energy production mix. The sessions will also address energy efficiency in various sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural, with the goal of promoting resource conservation and consumption optimization. Combining energy efficiency with clean energy is essential, the Minister emphasized, to reach carbon neutrality and reduce emissions.
Furthermore, the meeting will explore opportunities for direct investments in renewable energy, the localization of modern technologies, and the training of national professionals in this sector. Dr. Boushehri expressed confidence that these discussions would result in actionable decisions and policies.
The Minister also shared updates on two major renewable energy projects in Kuwait. The first, in collaboration with China, is set to generate 3,000 megawatts in the Shaqaya area. The second, in partnership with the Public-Private Partnership Projects Authority, aims to generate 2,700 megawatts, contributing 30% of Kuwait’s total energy production. The combined value of these projects is estimated at one billion Kuwaiti dinars (approximately $3.2 billion).
Additionally, Dr. Boushehri noted that independent supplier projects could include renewable energy initiatives. The Ministry has already signed memorandums of understanding with private sector companies to produce electricity under the independent supplier system.