Kuwait Unveils Three-Year Roadmap To Strengthen Power Sector And Expand Renewable Energy

Kuwait has outlined a three-year plan to strengthen its electricity sector and expand the use of clean energy, with a strong focus on solar power. The roadmap was presented by Dr Adel Mohammed Al-Zamel, undersecretary for electricity, water, and renewable energy, during a high-level government meeting held at Bayan Palace. The session was chaired by the Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, and focused on major development projects across the country.

During the briefing, Dr Al-Zamel explained the ministry’s work plan and key strategies aimed at improving the electricity system and increasing renewable energy capacity. While detailed timelines were not made public, the plan includes steps for adding new solar power stations over the next three years. The presentation highlighted Kuwait’s broader goal of modernizing its power sector to meet rising demand while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.

Kuwait is pushing ahead with large renewable energy projects as part of its target to generate 30 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Solar and wind energy remain the main focus areas. In March, Kuwait signed an agreement with China that gives Chinese companies an oversight role in the third and fourth phases of the Shagaya Renewable Energy Complex, as well as the Al-Abdiliya solar power plant. These projects are expected to play an important role in meeting the country’s clean energy targets.

Alongside energy development, Kuwait has also seen a sharp rise in government spending on development projects. By the end of the first quarter of the 2025–2026 plan period, development spending reached around KD 132.4 million, or about $434 million. This marks the highest quarterly spending level in five years and represents an increase of 11 percent compared to the previous peak recorded in 2020–2021. Infrastructure projects accounted for the largest share of this spending.

One of the key infrastructure projects currently underway is the first phase of Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, which is expected to be completed in 2028. The port is considered a major national project and a central part of Kuwait’s long-term economic development plans.

The ministerial committee overseeing major development projects was established in early 2025, following the signing of several cooperation agreements between Kuwait and China. Under these agreements, Chinese state-owned companies are involved in the design and operation of major projects in Kuwait. The committee regularly meets to review progress, address challenges, and ensure coordination between different government bodies.

In its latest meeting, the committee reviewed updates on projects related to renewable energy, regional electricity grid cooperation, waste recycling, housing, wastewater treatment, economic zones, and efforts to combat desertification. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of strong coordination with partner countries, stating that major development projects are essential for economic growth, job creation, and serving the interests of Kuwaiti citizens.