In 2025, the electricity consumption in Egypt is predominantly based on fossil fuels, with more than 85% of electricity generated from gas and oil sources. Specifically, gas alone accounts for over three-quarters of Egypt's electricity production, showcasing a heavy reliance on this fossil fuel. Meanwhile, low-carbon energy sources represent just under 14% of the total electricity generation, with around 7% coming from hydropower, roughly 4% from wind energy, and about 3% from solar energy. This modest figure for clean energy indicates a significant potential for growth, especially in leveraging Egypt's abundant solar resources to expand its clean electricity generation.

Is Electricity Growing in Egypt?

The electricity consumption per person in Egypt has grown, setting a new benchmark in 2025 with 2077 kWh/person, which is an increase from the previous high recorded in 2024. This growth signifies a rising trend in electricity demand, reflecting an increase of 41 kWh/person from the previous record. Notably, there has also been significant growth in low-carbon electricity generation, which rose to 287 kWh/person in 2025—an impressive increase of 42 kWh/person from 2024. This upward trajectory in both overall and clean electricity consumption is encouraging but suggests a need for further expansion in sustainable, low-carbon sources to match rising demand and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

Suggestions

To amplify its low-carbon electricity generation, Egypt could consider expanding its solar and wind capabilities. Successful regions like Nevada and Lebanon generate over 30% of their electricity from solar energy, which could be a model for Egypt given its sunny climate. Similarly, wind-rich regions like Iowa and Denmark yield around 57% of their electricity from wind power, or around 30-35% as in Ireland and Germany. Moreover, Egypt could explore nuclear energy, inspired by countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power constitutes more than half of their electricity generation. Expanding solar, wind, and introducing nuclear power would help Egypt diversify its electricity mix, capitalize on its natural resources, and significantly increase its low-carbon capacity.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Egypt reveals periods of both progress and setbacks. In the late 80s and 90s, hydropower saw some fluctuations with notable increases alongside occasional declines. Key milestones include the late 2000s with a boost in hydroelectric generation, though this was sometimes offset by subsequent decreases. The 2019 period marked the beginnings of diversification with the initial contributions from solar and wind. These transitions were fortified in the years 2020 to 2025, particularly with substantial jumps in wind and solar energy output during the latest year. As Egypt continues its journey toward cleaner energy sources, maintaining momentum with these gains while avoiding declines or stagnation will be crucial to securing a sustainable future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade