Amunet Wind Plant Starts Operations

July 01, 2025

Key Figures & Findings: The Amunet Wind Power Plant, Africa’s largest grid-connected wind facility, has officially commenced operations in Ras Ghareb, Egypt. Spearheaded by UAE-based AMEA Power and Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation, the 500 MW project operates under a 25-year PPA with the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company, while AMEA Power leads the venture with a 60% stake, and Sumitomo holds 40%, reflecting increasing Japanese participation in Egypt’s infrastructure finance space. The project forms part of a broader strategy to ease Egypt’s dependence on gas-fired generation, which currently accounts for over 70% of national electricity output.

Statistics & Insights: The $518 million financing package involved Japanese and international lenders, including JBIC, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, and IFC. The wind plant will supply power to over 500,000 households and contribute to Egypt’s stated goal of adding 17.7 GW of non-hydro renewables by 2034.

Future Implications: If current investment trends continue, Egypt could reduce its reliance on natural gas—currently over 70% of the electricity supply—by 2030. A second phase to double the plant’s capacity to 1,000 MW may be considered by 2027, subject to market and funding conditions.