Kuwait Implements Power Outages Amid Rising Demand and Maintenance Work
KUWAIT CITY, April 3, 2025 – The Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy has started rolling out scheduled power outages across several agricultural and industrial zones in Kuwait. This move comes in response to a growing power production shortfall caused by ongoing maintenance works and a sharp rise in electricity demand due to increasing temperatures.
Officials stated that the preventive outages are temporary but necessary, especially as the country prepares for the high electricity load expected during the scorching summer months.
Which Areas Are Affected – And Why?
The scheduled power cuts have affected eight major areas so far:
- Agricultural zones: Wafra, Abdali, Rawdatayn
- Industrial zones: Mina Abdullah, Subhan, Shuwaikh, Sulaibiya, and Al-Rai
According to ministry sources, these areas were selected due to their lower population density and the flexibility of their infrastructure to absorb such outages. The temporary shutdowns are intended to ease pressure on the grid while maintenance work continues on several key power-generating units.
The maintenance efforts are essential to get the power plants fully operational before Kuwait enters the peak summer season when demand typically skyrockets.
Emergency Support from Gulf Interconnection
To help bridge the gap in electricity supply, the ministry has activated its regional partnership with the Gulf Interconnection Authority (GCCIA).
As of April, Kuwait is importing 600 megawatts (MW) of electricity from the GCC power grid. The ministry is currently working to renew the agreement for May and has already begun negotiations to secure an additional 1,000 MW of electricity for the most demanding summer months—June through September.
These regional connections, developed through the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), are part of a long-term energy-sharing initiative meant to provide mutual support among member states during shortages and emergencies.
Minister Monitoring Situation, Urges Public Support
Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem has been actively overseeing the situation from the ministry’s central control center.
On April 2, electricity consumption hit 10,050 MW, significantly higher than Kuwait’s current safe production limit of around 9,100 MW. This is among the highest power demands recorded so far this year and is mostly attributed to rising temperatures, which reached up to 37°C.
Air conditioning alone accounts for approximately 70% of electricity usage in Kuwait, making it a key factor in the rising demand. The Ministry has warned that without immediate and widespread energy conservation, further pressure on the grid could lead to extended blackouts in other areas.
Ministry Appeals to Public for Energy Conservation
To avoid further load imbalances, the Ministry has issued a public appeal urging residents and businesses to conserve electricity, particularly during peak hours between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Energy-saving tips from the Ministry include:
- Set air conditioning units to 24°C
- Switch off unused lights and electrical appliances
- Turn off computers and other office systems after working hours
- Avoid running high-energy appliances like washing machines during peak times
This coordinated effort is aimed at easing the load during critical periods, especially while power plants remain under maintenance.
Major Investments in Power Infrastructure
In a bid to avoid such crises in the future, the Kuwaiti government has recently signed contracts worth KD 235 million (around $772.5 million) to upgrade and modernize the country’s aging electricity and water infrastructure.
These contracts include:
- Engineering and maintenance services for existing gas and steam turbine units
- Upgrades to the steam boilers at the Doha West Power Station, which will help extend their operational life by at least 20 years and improve thermal efficiency
These projects are part of Kuwait’s broader plan to increase the reliability and sustainability of its power and water production capabilities. The Ministry emphasized that such investments are vital as the nation continues to experience rising demand due to population growth, urban expansion, and climate change.
Challenges Remain: Delays in New Power Projects
While these investments mark progress, officials have acknowledged that delays in procurement and construction of new power stations remain a serious challenge. Negotiations with international developers and energy providers have been slower than expected, creating a gap in future capacity planning.
Experts have urged the government to fast-track procurement procedures, streamline approvals, and incentivize private-sector participation to ensure Kuwait can meet future energy needs without recurring outages.
A recent study warned that unless new production units come online soon, Kuwait could face a 15–20% electricity shortfall during peak periods by 2027. This shortfall would become even more critical if temperatures continue to rise and new housing or industrial developments are added to the grid without additional supply.
Climate Change and Kuwait’s Energy Strain
Kuwait, like many Gulf countries, is already experiencing the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, longer summers, and increased humidity have pushed cooling demands to new highs. In a region where daily life depends heavily on air conditioning, the need for reliable electricity is not just a convenience—but a necessity.
Environmental experts suggest that unless Kuwait also invests in renewable energy sources like solar and wind, the country may continue to face energy insecurity in the years ahead. Solar energy, in particular, is seen as a promising option, given Kuwait’s high solar irradiation levels throughout the year.
Looking Ahead
As Kuwait navigates this critical period, the success of its energy strategy will depend on both government action and public cooperation. While scheduled outages may cause temporary inconvenience, they are being implemented to prevent larger disruptions in the future.
The Ministry continues to reassure the public that these measures are temporary and necessary to ensure long-term grid stability. However, without immediate behavioral changes and faster infrastructure development, Kuwait could face more severe power challenges during the summer months ahead.
Final Note
The Ministry of Electricity urges all residents and commercial sectors to join hands in energy conservation efforts. As temperatures continue to rise, reducing our energy footprint is the most effective way to maintain stability, avoid extended outages, and support the country’s efforts toward a more sustainable energy future.
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