Egypt’s Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, Dr. Manal Awad, has directed officials to expedite the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for a major 900-megawatt wind power project in the Red Sea region, while ensuring full protection of one of the world’s most critical migratory bird corridors.
The directive came during a high-level meeting with representatives of Scatec, the global renewable energy company, to review procedures for implementing the Shadwan wind power plant in the Gabal El-Zeit area along the Red Sea coast.
Protecting Migratory Bird Route
Dr. Awad stressed that the project must not encroach on red zones designated for migratory birds, noting that Gabal El-Zeit is the second most important global flyway for soaring migratory birds.
“We are keen to ensure that renewable energy expansion does not come at the expense of biodiversity,” Awad said, adding that the Ministry of Environment is currently conducting a strategic national study of bird migration routes, in cooperation with specialized international partners, to clearly identify areas where projects are prohibited due to ecological sensitivity.
Balancing Green Energy Expansion and Biodiversity
The meeting included senior officials from the Ministry of Environment and climate policy experts, who reviewed the environmental impact study submitted by Scatec to the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) as part of the approval process.
Awad instructed the ministry’s technical teams to:
- Rapidly review the EIA
- Ensure compliance with all environmental and biodiversity safeguards
- Issue environmental approval only after full adherence to required standards
She emphasized that the project represents a strategic opportunity to balance industrial localization with renewable energy expansion, while safeguarding Egypt’s natural heritage.
Supporting Egypt’s Renewable Energy Targets
The 900-MW wind project aligns with Egypt’s national goal to reach 42% renewable energy in its power mix by 2030, as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under global climate commitments.
Awad highlighted that the project also supports local manufacturing of wind turbines, in line with presidential directives to localize industry and strengthen domestic value chains.
Praise for Scatec’s Solar Success in Upper Egypt
At the start of the meeting, Awad praised Scatec’s 500-MW “Obelisk” solar power project in Nagaa Hammadi, Qena Governorate, which was recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. She described the project as a key contributor to sustainable development and Egypt’s green transition.
She expressed hope for expanded cooperation with Scatec on future renewable energy projects across Egypt.
Broader Green Energy Vision
Scatec representatives outlined the company’s ongoing and planned investments in Egypt’s green energy sector, including:
- Supporting Egypt’s transition into a regional hub for green hydrogen and green ammonia
- Developing the first 24/7 sustainable green power project in Africa and the Middle East
- Advancing the localization of energy storage batteries
- Enhancing global partnerships to support Egypt’s economy and energy security
Sustainable Energy Expansion
Dr. Awad concluded that Egypt’s renewable energy strategy is grounded in environmental responsibility, economic growth, and climate resilience.
“The project reflects Egypt’s commitment to expanding clean energy while preserving biodiversity,” she said, “proving that development and environmental protection can move forward together.”
