Al-Mikhaizim: Developing the GCC Power Grid... A Pillar for a Safer and More Stable Future
Dr. Subaih Al-Makhzoum, Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, affirmed that Gulf integration in the electricity and water sectors constitutes a strategic pillar for enhancing energy and water security, and for raising the preparedness of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to keep pace with future changes and needs. He noted that the coming phase requires building on achieved cooperation and advancing toward more integrated and sustainable joint projects and initiatives.
This statement came during Minister Al-Makhzoum’s chairmanship of the Kuwaiti delegation participating in the 31st meeting of the Electricity and Water Cooperation Committee of the GCC countries, held today, Monday, in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Al-Makhzoum added that the shared destiny and integrated interests uniting GCC member states provide a solid foundation for expanding cooperation in the electricity and water sectors to broader horizons, and for transforming common challenges into opportunities for development and enhanced preparedness. He emphasized that developing the electricity interconnection system and proceeding with studies on water interconnection projects represent strategic investments in the security and sustainability of our resources, serving as a cornerstone for a safer, more stable, and prosperous future for the GCC countries and their peoples.
The meeting discussed several agenda items aimed at strengthening joint Gulf cooperation and integration pathways in the electricity and water sectors. Key topics included updates on the Gulf electricity interconnection and ways to develop and enhance its utilization, as well as monitoring the work of the GCC Electricity Interconnection Authority, which supports the reliability and stability of electrical systems and raises the level of coordination and integration among GCC member states.
The meeting also reviewed the progress of several joint GCC committees concerned with water resources, the rationalization of electricity and water consumption, consumer services, and new and renewable energy. Additionally, it addressed the follow-up on joint programs, initiatives, and events, and the enhancement of knowledge and experience exchange among member states in relevant fields.
In the water sector, the meeting discussed updates on water interconnection among GCC countries, including studies on the feasibility of creating water interconnection projects between member states, and monitoring developments in bilateral water interconnection works. These efforts aim to strengthen Gulf coordination and integration in the water sector and support joint endeavors to enhance water security and raise preparedness to face future challenges.
The meeting also reviewed several upcoming Gulf initiatives and programs in the electricity and water sectors, including the Unified Gulf Forum for Electricity and Water Regulators for 2027, and the GCC participation in relevant regional and international conferences and events. It also covered the follow-up on the implementation of several Supreme Council decisions aimed at enhancing cooperation among GCC member states.
Kuwait’s participation in the meeting underscores its commitment to supporting the trajectory of joint Gulf work and strengthening coordination and integration with GCC countries in the electricity and water sectors, thereby contributing to the development of shared systems and infrastructure and addressing future challenges efficiently and sustainably.
