Egypt eyes wind and solar projects at Gebel El Galala off Red Sea

The Egyptian government is currently studying plans to harness the high wind speeds of the Gebel El Galala region in Suez Governorate for renewable energy projects, Economy Plus reported on April 13, citing a statement from the Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy.

The plan includes the potential integration of solar power facilities as part of efforts to expand its clean energy capacity.

Gebel El-Galala is located in the Suez Governorate of northeastern Egypt. It is part of a limestone plateau that overlooks the Gulf of Suez and the Red Sea. The area has become a major hub for development, particularly with the establishment of Galala City, a large-scale national project at an elevation of approximately 700 metres above sea level.

The move was discussed during a field visit by Transport Minister Kamel El Wazir, Electricity and Renewable Energy Minister Mahmoud Esmat, and the head of the New and Renewable Energy Authority, Ehab Ismail. The delegation reviewed practical steps to begin utilising the mountainous area for wind energy generation.

According to the statement, the initiative forms part of Egypt’s broader sustainable development strategy and national energy plan, which aims to diversify energy sources, increase reliance on renewables, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Gebel El Galala offers favourable conditions for such projects, with elevations ranging between 1,280 and 1,800 metres and average wind speeds of around 15 metres per second. These characteristics make the site particularly suitable for large-scale wind energy generation.

Officials also examined possible connections between the proposed projects and existing wind farms in Zaafarana, as well as routes for linking electricity output to the national grid. Discussions included combining wind and solar power to maximise efficiency, reduce costs, and accelerate implementation timelines. 

The plan supports Egypt’s target of sourcing 45% of its energy mix from renewables by 2028.