Kuwait has taken a major step toward boosting its power and water supply. On Sunday, officials signed a KD 1 billion ($3.2 billion) deal to expand the Al-Zour Power Plant expansion project. This ambitious plan will double the plant’s capacity by 2028. A consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power and the Gulf Investment Corporation will handle the project. Therefore, the Al-Zour Power Plant expansion includes building two new phases. These phases will add 2,700 megawatts of electricity and 120 million gallons of desalinated water daily.
Moreover, once complete, the facility will become Kuwait’s largest power plant. The Kuwait Authority for Partnership Projects (KAPP) confirmed the deal. They emphasized that this project supports national efforts to meet rising energy demands. The new plant will sit along the Arabian Gulf coast, 100 kilometers south of Kuwait City. It will cover 500,000 square meters, connecting to existing facilities. In addition, the Al-Zour Power Plant expansion will also create jobs and attract private investment.
Dr. Adel Al-Zamil, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, highlighted the project’s importance. Therefore, he stated that it aligns with Kuwait’s broader energy strategy. This includes upgrades to the Al-Khairan and Al-Shagaya plants. A group of local and international banks will fund the Al-Zour Power Plant expansion. The consortium will design, finance, and operate the plant for 40 years. The government will purchase the electricity and water under a long-term agreement.
Moreover, officials say private sector involvement will cut costs and speed up construction. The project follows Kuwait’s public-private partnership laws. It also includes plans for public share offerings. Furthermore, the Al-Zour Power Plant expansion marks a turning point for Kuwait’s infrastructure. By 2028, the country will have a stronger, more efficient energy network. This upgrade ensures reliable power and water for future development.
However, with this project, Kuwait moves closer to energy security. Overall, the partnership with ACWA Power sets a model for future collaborations. The nation’s growing needs now have a clear, sustainable solution.
