Amid the scorching desert sun of Aswan in southern Egypt, Chinese and Egyptian workers labor side by side among rows of gleaming solar panels. Together, they are bringing to life Egypt’s vision of becoming a regional clean energy hub at the vast Benban Solar Energy Park.
Covering an impressive 37 square kilometers, the park is slated to have a total installed capacity of 2 gigawatts, harnessing the abundant solar resources of the region. At the heart of this ambitious project is Asia-Africa Green Energy Investment Limited (CTG Asia-Africa), an investment platform for China Three Gorges International in the Asian and North African regions.
“We have five projects with a total installed capacity of 321 megawatts in the park, making us the second-largest investor here,” said Li Fengyi, vice director of MENA renewable power plants at CTG Asia-Africa. “All the panels used in our projects are made in China,” he added, highlighting the advanced technology and expertise brought to Egypt.
Empowering Egypt’s Clean Energy Goals
The collaboration between Chinese companies and Egypt is not only boosting the country’s renewable energy capacity but also contributing significantly to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Egyptian Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy, the solar power plant at Benban is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2 million tonnes annually.
Transforming Local Communities
The impact of the projects extends beyond clean energy generation. Thousands of job opportunities have been created, providing stable employment for local residents. Ahmed Kamal, a 33-year-old engineer, moved with his wife and daughter from Alexandria to Aswan after joining CTG Asia-Africa.
“The projects have created thousands of jobs since their establishment, supporting many residents of Benban and Aswan,” Kamal shared. “I have benefited financially as this job has improved my income and living standards.”
Mohammed Hussein, a 39-year-old employee from Benban, echoed Kamal’s sentiments. “I used to travel across provinces in search of work. Now, I’m very satisfied working here and hope to continue with the Chinese projects in the future,” he said with a smile.
A Joint Venture Towards Sustainability
The partnership between Chinese companies and Egypt exemplifies how international cooperation can drive sustainable development while uplifting local communities. The surrounding areas of the projects have seen notable improvements in living conditions, as stable incomes transform the lives of residents in this once remote desert region.
As the solar panels continue to capture the relentless Aswan sun, the collaboration illuminates a brighter, cleaner future for Egypt and serves as a model for renewable energy development across the region.
Reference(s):
Chinese company helps galvanize Egypt's clean energy development
cgtn.com
