Heatwave Drives Egypt’s Power Demand to Record high of 40,000MW

Egypt’s electricity load hit a record 40,000 megawatts (MW) on August 11, up 700 MW from the previous day’s 39,300 MW, as the grid continues to absorb unprecedented summer demand driven by extreme heat, according to the National Energy Control Center (NECC).

The peak surpasses last year’s high of 39,800 MW, underscoring the sharp rise in consumption during the 2026 summer season. The unified grid has so far met demand, supported by efficiency upgrades, maintenance programs, and adherence to international standards.

Egypt has been gripped by severe heatwaves this summer, with thermometer readings consistently exceeding 40°C during daytime.

Electricity Minister Mahmoud Esmat has been monitoring grid performance and peak‑load readiness, with technical support, emergency crews, maintenance teams, and inspection committees placed on heightened alert.

The record electricity load comes as Egypt’s petroleum and electricity sectors continue to coordinate closely to secure fuel supplies for power generation during the summer.

On August 10, Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, reviewed plans to secure natural gas supplies during the second half of the summer, including deliveries to power plants amid high temperatures and rising electricity demand.

Badawi said measures implemented during the first half of the summer included the deployment of regasification vessels, liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes, increased domestic gas production, and advance supply planning to meet local demand. The ministry is also maintaining real-time monitoring of gas network operations, consumption levels, and gas flows.

The petroleum ministry’s preparations are part of a broader joint plan with the electricity sector to secure fuel supplies and maintain grid stability during the summer. In June, the two ministries said electricity demand was expected to increase by 8% year-on-year during the summer, prompting the review of operating scenarios and contingency plans for periods of peak consumption.