Power Demand in Egypt Hits Record 40,000 MW During Heatwave

Egypt's unified electricity grid recorded its highest-ever peak load on Tuesday, reaching 40,000 megawatts (MW) as the ongoing heatwave pushed electricity consumption to record levels, according to the Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy.

The National Energy Control Centre said the new peak was 700 MW higher than Monday's 39,300 MW and exceeded the previous annual record of 39,800 MW, set during the summer of 2025. The ministry added that electricity demand and peak loads are expected to continue rising at an unusually rapid pace throughout the current summer.

The increase comes as temperatures in Greater Cairo approach 40°C, while parts of Upper Egypt have recorded even higher temperatures, driving increased electricity use, particularly during peak hours. The ministry said the National Energy Control Centre is continuously monitoring grid performance to maintain stability and respond to fluctuations in demand.

Electricity Minister Mahmoud Esmat said the grid's ability to accommodate unprecedented demand reflects ongoing maintenance programmes, adherence to international quality standards and operational improvements introduced across the electricity sector.

The ministry has raised its state of readiness nationwide, deploying additional technical support, emergency response, maintenance, occupational safety and inspection teams to help ensure uninterrupted electricity supplies. Esmat also instructed officials to closely monitor the grid across all voltage levels, respond rapidly to faults and consumer complaints, and maintain direct communication with the public through the ministry's reporting and complaints system.