Egypt and Saudi Arabia are nearing completion of their 3,000 MW electricity interconnection, a mega-project linking the region’s two largest power grids through 1,350 km of cables and overhead lines. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly confirmed the project’s April 2026 operational deadline during an inspection of the Badr converter station in Cairo.
Officials said major infrastructure is already in place, including the Badr converter and Taba 2 stations, a 320 km 500 kV transmission line, and all marine and land cable works across the Red Sea. Final grid integration is due before the end of 2025.
The link, featuring three high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) converter stations — Badr, Tabuk, and East Madinah — will allow Egypt and Saudi Arabia to exchange electricity efficiently based on differing peak demand hours, improving fuel savings and grid stability.
Energy experts describe the project as a cornerstone for regional power integration. “This is the Middle East’s first large-scale HVDC interconnection — a foundation for future links between Africa, Asia, and Europe,” said Dr. Helena Wu, an energy-systems researcher.
The project supports both nations’ goals of optimising renewable energy use and positioning themselves as regional energy hubs. With testing already underway, the Egypt–Saudi power bridge is on track to become the largest cross-border electricity link in the Arab world by early 2026.
