Egypt is preparing to restart the tender process for a pumped storage hydropower plant at Ataka Mount. The project was previously planned under an agreement signed in 2015 for a 2,100-megawatt (MW) facility, but it did not move forward due to financing challenges.
Pumped storage hydropower plants function by storing energy in the form of water at a higher elevation and releasing it to generate electricity when demand increases. This technology helps stabilize electricity grids, especially when integrating renewable sources such as solar and wind.
Egypt has been expanding its renewable energy sector. The Benban Solar Park, located in Aswan, has an installed capacity of 1,650 MW, making it one of the largest solar power projects in the world. The Gulf of Suez wind farms contribute over 1,375 MW. The Zaafarana Wind Farm, developed in phases, produces approximately 545 MW.
Hydropower remains an important part of Egypt’s energy mix, with the Aswan High Dam continuing to provide electricity. The Ataka Mount project, once tendered again, is expected to contribute to energy storage and grid stability by using surplus electricity to pump water uphill and generating power when needed.
Other projects include the Kom Ombo Solar Plant, which is expected to generate 200 MW. Additionally, Egypt has signed agreements for green hydrogen production in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, aiming to establish a hydrogen-based energy industry. The upcoming tender will determine new investment partners to develop the project under revised terms.
