Egypt-Saudi Power Grid Interconnection Enters Final Testing Phase

The Egypt-Saudi electricity interconnection project has entered its final testing stage, marking an important step in regional energy cooperation. Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, confirmed that trial operations are now in progress. He said full synchronization between the Egyptian and Saudi national power grids is expected to begin in the coming weeks.

The announcement followed a field visit to the high-voltage direct current converter station in Badr City. The station is a key part of the project and is considered one of the largest of its kind in the Middle East. It uses advanced HVDC technology to transfer electricity efficiently over long distances. During the inspection, officials also reviewed the 320-kilometer overhead transmission line linking Badr City to the Taba 2 station. In addition, they assessed the submarine cables laid beneath the Red Sea, which connect the two countries across the water.

Once completed, the interconnection will allow the exchange of up to 3,000 megawatts of electricity between Egypt and Saudi Arabia. The project includes around 1,350 kilometers of transmission infrastructure and connects three major converter stations, two in Saudi Arabia and one in Egypt. This system is designed to act as an “energy bridge,” strengthening economic ties and opening the door to a wider regional electricity market.

Officials say the connection will bring several benefits. Since peak electricity demand occurs at different times in each country, the link will allow both sides to share power when needed. This is expected to improve grid stability and ensure more reliable electricity supply. It will also help lower operating costs by allowing more efficient use of power plants. The system is expected to support the integration of renewable energy and reduce fuel consumption by improving generation management.

Minister Esmat described the project as a strategic move that goes beyond a bilateral partnership. He said it represents a step toward linking electricity networks across Africa, Asia, and Europe. By establishing this high-capacity connection, Egypt and Saudi Arabia aim to strengthen energy security and support the global transition toward cleaner power systems.

As final technical checks continue, both countries are moving closer to completing one of the region’s most ambitious energy projects. The successful synchronization of the two grids will mark a major achievement in engineering cooperation and regional integration.