Egypt plans to increase the supply of electricity generated from renewable sources to 20% by 2022 and 42% by 2035. Notably, it is aiming to have a quarter of its energy provided by the sun by 2035. Cairo Solar is a startup that is encouraging people to adopt solar energy. Solar energy is a relatively cheap energy source who’s adoption could help protect the environment.
Founded in 2014, Cairo Solar has set up 57 solar energy plants in factories, schools, universities and hotels. The startup builds and operates solar power stations in Egypt to generate electricity. It offers its services to individuals, companies, and government entities. One of the company’s main selling points is that it allows its customers to pay for the solar plants in installments.
Hatem Tawfik, Managing Director at Cairo Solar, told WAYA that his house is run by solar energy. He says “My house is one of the first houses that rely entirely on solar energy, whether it is for the car or heating the pool. It provides electricity for the whole house.” He says that his swimming pool is connected to a solar device that can heat it up to 5 degrees Celsius. As a result, the pool can be used in spring and summer without using gas. Tawfik explains “As for the car, it works with electricity by charging it for 9 hours, and it runs about 450 kilometers. Thus, it saves 2700 Egyptian pounds for the cost of gasoline, and also maintenance expenses such as oils and filter replacements, etcetera.”
Tawfik’s home is an example of a home powered by renewable energy. The outcome is a home that is less damaging to the environment with cheaper energy bills. With Egypt’s year-round sunshine there is no fear of running out of this abundant energy source.
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