Benban Solar Park Powers Egypt’s Future

October 23, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 2 minutes

Key Figures & Findings: Egypt’s Benban Solar Park, the largest in Africa, covers 14 square miles and produces 1.8 gigawatts of power. Completed in 2019 at £3 billion, the park supplies energy to 420,000 homes. Part of Egypt’s Nubian Suns Feed-In Tariff program, it plays a pivotal role in Egypt's Sustainable Energy Strategy 2035. The project attracted international backing from the Green Climate Fund, the European Union, and the World Bank. It also created over 20,000 jobs during construction, boosting local expertise in solar technology.

Statistics & Insights: Benban has reduced Egypt's carbon emissions by two million tonnes annually and lowered the cost of photovoltaic systems. Despite its success, challenges remain in wider solar adoption due to the high cost for consumers.

Future Implications: With the goal of 42% renewable energy by 2035, Egypt will need government incentives to boost solar adoption, particularly in urban areas like Cairo. Benban sets the stage for future solar projects across Africa.