In the wake of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the cabinet of Kuwait has reportedly canceled its plan to start the construction process of the Al-Dabdaba solar facility. This solar plant was expected to serve 15% of the electric energy demands from the oil sector.

The Kuwaiti cabinet has reportedly stated that it has decided to terminate the plans of developing the Al-Dabdaba solar plant project due to the accelerating cases of COVID-19 infections and its rising impacts on the oil and financial markets globally. The project, carried out by KNPC (Kuwait National Petroleum Company), was anticipated to become operational in February 2021. However, the procedure was considerably delayed by bureaucratic procedures.

As per reliable reports, $1.4 billion (439 million Kuwaiti dinars) was the lowest bid for the recent solar plant project. The country plans to generate 15% of the energy through renewable sources by 2030. The recent decision to cancel the project is likely to contribute to the KPC (Kuwait Petroleum Corporation), which is focusing on prioritizing the company’s continued operation in years ahead and maintaining its robust position in the oil markets across the globe.

Under the recent project, the solar plant was expected to be established in the Al-Shikaya Complex for generating renewable energy, located 62 miles (100 kilometers) west of Kuwait City, on around 32 sq. km. (12.4. sq. mi.). However, the project was repeatedly delayed due to the economic downturn and business disruptions caused by the pandemic.

Most recently, there have been 614 new confirmed cases of the COVID-19 disease in Kuwait, bringing the total toll of infected people in the country to 55,508. In addition, 3 new death cases were recorded in the region, which brings to the total death cases of 393. Nearly 45,356 people were recovered from the disease to date.

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https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/kuwait-cancels-al-dabdaba-solar-plant-project-due-to-coronavirus/76950897