Minister of Electricity: Purchase of renewable energy within next few days

KUWAIT, June 3 (KUNA) -- Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy and Minister of State for Housing Affairs Mutlaq Al-Otaibi said on Saturday that the Ministry would take a decision to purchase renewable energy from "third parties within the next few days." Minister Al-Otaibi said in a statement that the Ministry is seeking to produce no less than 15 percent of the country's electrical consumption from renewable energy sources by 2030, based on the directives of the political leadership.
Al-Otaibi pointed out that the Ministry has completed surveys and studies, examining experience of neighboring countries in purchasing renewable energy and reducing pollution from power stations that operate with fossil fuels.
Al-Otaibi indicated at the approach to encourage citizens, namely small investors, to establish companies working on installing photovoltaic energy systems and related equipment.
He added that while the Ministry seeks to execute its projects, specifically the Shagaya project, which is expected to produce 4,400 megawatts, it is studying several proposals to implement more renewable energy ventures.
Al-Otaibi pointed out that among the proposals "we are studying currently is establishment of renewable energy projects on the islands of Failaka and Bubiyan, in line with the vision of the Council of Ministers to develop the islands to diversify sources of income.
The minister also hinted at plans to install photovoltaic energy systems on the facilities' roofs.
Concerning the Shagaya project, Minister Al-Otaibi pointed out that the joint committee of the Ministry and the Authority for Partnership Projects would issue recommendations regarding the venture, which is expected to have a production capacity of 4400 megawatts in four stages.
Al-Otaibi indicated that the project would contribute to providing more job opportunities. (end) msa.ara