Edison International’s investments
in Egypt estimated at $2.5bn since 2009
Edison has operated in Egypt since the 1990s in exploring, drilling & producing 250 million ft³ of gas and 4000 barrels
of condensates a day
We are currently expanding our activities in different power fields
By Mahmoud Hammad
Over 130 years ago Edison started its history of innovation and progress with an integrated presence in both electricity and hydrocarbons. Since the mid- 1990’s Edison has been present in Egypt’s upstream. Edison currently holds 8 concessions and 1 that awaits Parliament approval for proceeding. In an interview with Mr. Tarek Shalaby, Commercial & Business Development Manager, he reveals the Company’s dynamic activities and expansion in the power generation Sectors.
Tell us more about Edison International- Egypt ?
The Italian Edison International is owned by Électricité de France (EDF) and operates in Egypt since the 1990s in exploring and drilling. Edison produces nearly 250 million ft³ of gas and 4000 barrels of condensates a day, on the other hand, EDF works in renewable energy and supplies liquefied natural gas to Egypt. We regard Egypt vital for our expansion plans, especially in power sector and improving our energy capacity.
Where do you operate?
Edison International has projects in Egypt, UK, Norway, Croatia, Italy, Greece, Algeria, and UAE. Furthermore, we are always on the look for new opportunities.
How many zones are you working in, and where are they located?
We have concession rights in 8 areas, 3 zones are currently in the production phase and 5 under-exploration, and we expect to get the right for one more Zone following an approval by the Parliment. Three of these are located in the Eastern Mediterranean, 3 in Delta, which is our largest production zone, as well as others in the Western Dessert and Suez Gulf.
Moreover, we are further expanding our activities in power fields development, and we are currently building a power station in Abu Qir.
Do you have any problems with the Egyptian authorities in executing your work?
Edison International has very good relations with the Egyptian authorities, who are in turn very open to our new ideas. That’s why we manage to come up with agreements that benefit both the country and investors.
How big are your investments?
Edison International’s investments in Egypt since 2009 are estimated at $2.5bn and boosting them depends on our exploration plans. Thus, our investments will increase by the size of fields that will be developed.
How do you see the Egyptian market?
The Egyptian market is very close to the Italian market, since they both rely on natural gas to generate electricity. We believe Egypt to be the second largest gas-consuming market in the Mediterranean. Add to this, it is very promising and the steps adopted by the government to free gas and power sector helped us and other investors develop new projects and boost investments.
