Egypt Unveils Solar Power Stations At World Heritage Sites In Groundbreaking Conservation Initiative

In a landmark ceremony at the Manial Palace, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, represented by the Supreme Council for Antiquities (SCA), the Industrial Modernization Center, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Egypt, unveiled solar power stations at five Egyptian world heritage sites and museums. These stations, accomplished under the Egypt PV project, mark a significant stride toward sustainable energy practices and environmental conservation.

Strategically positioned at the Giza Plateau’s Visitor Center, Manial Palace in Cairo, Sharm El Sheikh Museum, and two Museums in Alexandria (The National and the Royal Jewelry Museums), the five solar power stations boast a total capacity of 325 kW of photovoltaic systems, generating 520 MW.hr/year. This initiative is expected to reduce approximately 295 tons/year of carbon dioxide equivalent, contributing to annual greenhouse gas emission mitigation.

This achievement signifies the completion of the Egypt PV flagship project, a groundbreaking initiative that pioneered the market for rooftop small-scale PV systems in Egypt. Initially supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and later funded by the European Union through the UNDP project with the COP27 Presidency, the project engaged a diverse range of government and private sector stakeholders.

Ms. Ghada Shalaby, Vice Minister for Tourism Affairs, emphasized the ministry’s commitment to sustainable growth while preserving Egypt’s cultural heritage. Dr. Mostafa Waziri, Secretary-General of the SCA, highlighted the plan to integrate solar energy across all Egyptian world heritage sites and museums, emphasizing the strategic move towards sustainability. Mr. Moamen Osman, Head of the Museums Sector at the SCA, underscored the council’s dedication to ensuring sustainability at archaeological sites and museums.

Ms Doaa Selima, Executive Director of the Industrial Modernization Center, highlighted the center’s role in supporting the implementation of solar power stations, providing consultancy services to the industrial sector for sustainable energy solutions. Alessandro Fracassetti, UNDP Egypt Resident Representative, celebrated the inauguration as a pivotal milestone in the Egypt PV project, contributing to Egypt’s energy transition and aligning with Sustainable Development Goals.

The Egypt PV project, promoting small-scale renewable energy systems and energy-efficient appliances, stands as a testament to collaborative efforts in achieving renewable energy goals and fostering a sustainable future for Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.