Egypt Advances Renewable Energy With Nefer Benban Solar-Plus-Storage Project In Aswan

Egypt is steadily advancing its renewable energy ambitions with the development of the Nefer Benban solar-plus-storage project in Aswan. The project is located within the well-known Benban Solar Park, one of the largest solar installations in the world, and reflects the country’s growing focus on combining solar power with modern battery storage solutions.

Hassan Allam Constructions, the main contractor for the project, has recently finalized key supply agreements to move the project forward. These agreements are crucial for ensuring that the plant operates efficiently once completed. The Nefer Benban facility is planned to have a solar generation capacity of 258.5 megawatts, supported by a battery energy storage system with a capacity of 120 megawatt-hours. This combination will help store excess power and deliver electricity when it is needed most.

To enhance performance, Hassan Allam Constructions has partnered with GameChange Solar to supply advanced solar tracking systems. These systems allow solar panels to follow the movement of the sun, increasing energy generation throughout the day. In addition, Sineng Electric will provide inverter stations and medium-voltage switchgear, which are essential for converting and managing the electricity produced by the solar plant.

The project is being developed through a collaboration between Infinity Power and Hassan Allam Utilities Energy. Infinity Power itself is a joint venture between Masdar and Infinity Holding, bringing together strong regional and international expertise. Financial support is also coming from global institutions, with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development providing a bridge loan of around 65 million dollars. The total investment in the Nefer Benban project is estimated at approximately 180 million dollars.

Nefer Benban is part of Egypt’s wider NWFE program, which aims to add 10 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity to the national grid. Another major project under this initiative is Nefer Minya, which is expected to deliver 1,000 megawatts of solar power.

Egypt has set clear long-term climate targets, aiming to generate 42 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and increase this to 65 percent by 2040. Power purchase agreements for Nefer Benban have already been signed with the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company, and the project is expected to begin commercial operations by the third quarter of 2027.

Once operational, the project will help improve grid stability and provide a reliable supply of clean energy, supporting Egypt’s transition away from fossil fuels and strengthening its position as a regional leader in renewable energy.