Kuwaits Advises Setting AC Temperature At 23°C As It Initiates Rolling Power Cuts

The load index in Kuwait reached a critical level on Monday, hitting 16,406 megawatts due to soaring temperatures and increased electricity consumption. In response, the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy announced rolling power cuts in some non-residential areas to maintain the stability of the electricity system, Arab Times reported.

Emergency maintenance is being conducted on certain electricity generation units. Two units at the Subiya and South Zour stations, with a combined capacity of 590 megawatts, were taken offline. This action was necessary as temperatures neared 50 degrees Celsius.

The ministry has implemented programmed power cuts in parts of 13 areas across various governorates. The affected residential areas include Abdullah Al-Mubarak, Farwaniya, Sabah Al-Ahmad, Naseem, Jahra, Jabriya, Nahda, Andalus, Sulaibikhat, Shuwaikh Residential, and Shamiya.

To manage energy use more effectively during peak hours from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, it is advised to set air conditioners at 23°C instead of 18°C. Air conditioners account for 70 percent of energy consumption. Reducing their usage can significantly help in conserving energy.

Government agencies should also apply rationalization policies to minimize electricity use during official working hours. This includes reducing electricity consumption in unoccupied or less crowded areas within government buildings.

Informed sources from the ministry highlighted that the current crisis stems from a lack of productivity. This has forced the ministry to rely on energy imports from the Gulf network and other temporary solutions.

The sources emphasized the need to expedite tendering processes for energy projects and remove bureaucratic obstacles. This will ensure that projects are completed promptly in both the short and long term.

The ministry's efforts aim to preserve the stability of Kuwait's electricity system while addressing immediate challenges posed by high temperatures and increased demand.