Shifts Toward Sustainable and Secure Energy Systems Being Aided by SEC's Efforts
Kuwait has unveiled its long-term strategy for sustainable energy and carbon neutrality, as outlined in the "White Paper for Kuwait's Energy Transition." The strategy, presented at a meeting chaired by Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, the Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, emphasises integration and coordination among all concerned government institutions.
The strategy focuses on several key initiatives and strategies aimed at facilitating Kuwait’s shift towards sustainable energy, maximising economic benefits, and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.
One of the primary elements is expanding power generation capacity and efficiency. The government plans to add approximately 14,000 megawatts to the current 18,000 megawatts capacity by 2029 through new power generation projects. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand while improving energy reliability and preventing power cuts.
Another crucial aspect is managing high energy consumption, particularly in the area of electricity. With Kuwait’s per capita electricity consumption significantly higher than neighbouring countries, substantial emphasis is placed on demand-side management. Campaigns encourage consumers to reduce electricity use, particularly as 60% of power goes to air conditioning and around 10% is lost to irresponsible consumption. Measures include cracking down on high-consumption activities like cryptocurrency mining and increasing public awareness to reduce wastage.
The strategy also prioritises technological innovation to boost economic development and support the transition. This likely involves deploying advanced energy technologies, including renewables integration and improving operational efficiencies across sectors.
Sustainability and emission management are also key components of the strategy. The country is focused on integrated approaches to reduce carbon footprints and manage emissions across oil and gas industries by adopting innovative technologies and enhancing energy efficiency. Frameworks for ESG reporting, health, safety, security, and environmental standards are being developed to support sustainable operations and stakeholder engagement.
The transition strategy also supports economic diversification by leveraging Kuwait’s sovereign wealth and promoting investments in clean energy technologies and infrastructure. This includes creating frameworks for sustainable development that balance environmental goals with economic growth.
Sahar Al-Awadhi presented the energy transition strategy for Kuwait's oil sector at the meeting, while Engineer Dina Al-Naqeeb presented the 'White Paper for Kuwait's Energy Transition.' The meeting was dedicated to reviewing recent progress in national energy transformation efforts and aligning with global trends and Kuwait's long-term vision for sustainability and energy security.
The oil sector strategy seeks to reinforce Kuwait's position in the global renewable energy landscape, with the 'White Paper' outlining major national initiatives for energy transition. The meeting was reported by Al-Rai daily, and it was clear that the country is committed to advancing its shift towards sustainable and secure energy systems.
- The strategy for Kuwait's energy transition, as outlined in the "White Paper for Kuwait's Energy Transition," emphasizes integrating renewable energy into the oil sector to reinforce Kuwait's position in the global renewable energy landscape.
- To achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, the strategy prioritizes technological innovation, particularly in deploying advanced energy technologies, and sustainability measures that reduce carbon footprints across various industries.
- The transition strategy also supports economic diversification by leveraging Kuwait's sovereign wealth and promoting investments in clean energy technologies and infrastructure, with a focus on frameworks for sustainable development that balance environmental goals with economic growth.