Latest news with #SabeehAl-Mukhaizeem
Kuwait Times
17-06-2025
- Health
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait taps scientific expertise amid risks of radiation leaks
KUWAIT: Kuwait is mobilizing its scientific expertise and emergency response systems to safeguard the environment and public health, as officials brace for potential fallout from the ongoing military escalation between Iran and the Zionist entity. Amid rising fears over chemical, radiological, and environmental risks following airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy Dr Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem convened a coordination meeting Monday with senior officials from the Ministry of Health and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR). 'The meeting focused on following up on the latest regional developments and reviewing preparedness to address any potential environmental repercussions resulting from these developments,' the ministry said in a statement. Al-Mukhaizeem emphasized the importance of continued coordination between agencies and 'taking all necessary precautionary measures to protect the country's vital resources and mitigate any negative impacts that may arise from the current regional situation.' The meeting was attended by senior figures including Dr Adel Al-Zamil, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Electricity, and Dr Munther Al-Hasawi, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Affairs, alongside Dr Nasser Al-Juwaisri, Director of Radiation Prevention. Leading the KISR delegation was Director General Dr Faisal Al-Humaidan. Minister Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem chairs a meeting with officials from KISR, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy on Monday. Scientists on board KISR experts - Dr Abdullah Al-Enezi, Director of the Environment and Climate Change Program; Dr Yousef Al-Osairi, specialist in hydro-environmental modeling of the Arabian Gulf and Kuwait Bay; and Dr Mansour Mahmoud Ahmed, an expert in water treatment and desalination technologies - presented advanced simulation systems and research aimed at evaluating and forecasting environmental impacts under various conflict scenarios. Separately, the National Guard reinforced its role in Kuwait's emergency readiness through a visit from the KISR delegation to the Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Center for Chemical Defense and Radiological Monitoring. According to a National Guard statement, Undersecretary Lt Gen Hashim Al-Rifai discussed ways to enhance collaboration, train personnel, and share scientific expertise. The delegation was briefed on the center's responsibilities in monitoring chemical and radiological pollutants. 'The delegation praised the advancements in the National Guard's chemical defense systems,' the statement noted, adding that further cooperation would strengthen Kuwait's environmental security under the current regional conditions. No abnormal radiation Kuwait's National Guard confirmed Sunday that the country's radiological and chemical situation remains 'normal and stable', despite rising regional tensions. In a joint statement to Al-Akhbar TV, Col Khaled Lami, Chief of Operations and Training at the center, said the Guard operates 29 land monitoring stations across border and urban areas, as well as 15 sea stations in Kuwaiti waters, all capable of detecting chemical and radiological threats in real time. 'The monitoring system has been working nonstop since its launch in 2015, and all measures are routine, not tied to any specific event or development,' Lami explained. Dr Al-Hasawi, who also attended Monday's meeting at the Ministry of Electricity, confirmed that the Ministry of Health operates a parallel nationwide monitoring system involving both fixed and mobile stations. 'No abnormal radiological levels have been recorded, and all readings are within normal limits in Kuwait,' he reassured Sunday. — Agencies
Kuwait Times
11-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait to launch Shagaya, eyes 50% renewables by 2050
KUWAIT: Kuwait plans to begin implementing the Shagaya renewable energy project this year, with a total electricity production capacity of 4,800 megawatts — representing around 26 to 27 percent of the country's total power output, Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy Dr Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem announced on Sunday. Speaking on the sidelines of the Kuwait Sustainable Energy Conference, Al-Mukhaizeem said the project will be developed in phases, some through Kuwait's Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Authority, and others in cooperation with the Chinese government. Kuwait signed an agreement with China in March to implement renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of approximately 3,500 megawatts. A Chinese delegation arrived in Kuwait on Sunday and is scheduled to visit the project site. The minister expressed hope that the Shagaya project will be operational by 2028. He added that the financial cost of the project is still under study. Al-Mukhaizeem stressed that achieving a balanced energy mix is among Kuwait's strategic priorities, with a goal of generating 50 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2050. This vision aligns with the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and supports Kuwait's commitment to sustainable development. 'In light of accelerating environmental and economic challenges, investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency is no longer just a technical option — it has become a necessity,' he said. Kuwait continues to expand its clean energy projects and diversify energy sources, while enhancing regional and international partnerships to stabilize power grids, strengthen national economies and promote a long-term culture of sustainability. The minister called for joint initiatives, strategic cooperation, knowledge exchange, and innovative solutions in the energy sector. Al-Mukhaizeem also highlighted the importance of the conference coinciding with Kuwait assuming the presidency of the Regional Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (RCREEE), which reflects regional and global trust in Kuwait's leadership in energy transformation. RCREEE Chairman Ahmad Al-Dosari said the conference is a key platform for regional dialogue on the future of energy and praised Kuwait's efforts to diversify its energy mix in line with Kuwait 2035 vision and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He noted the center's role in providing technical support, coordinating policy and building regional capacity. Dr Bahjat Abu Al-Nasr, Director of the Energy Department at the Arab League, emphasized the conference as a regional platform for decision-makers and experts to discuss the latest trends and innovations in renewable energy, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Arab League. He reaffirmed the League's commitment to supporting the energy transition through partnerships with RCREEE. Dr Torkild Byg, Deputy Head of the European Union Mission in Kuwait, reiterated the importance of transitioning to a renewable energy-driven and sustainable future. He commended Kuwait's progress and emphasized the EU's goal to be the first carbon-neutral continent by 2050 through international partnerships and innovation. Dr Grammenos Mastrojeni, First Deputy Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean, stressed that sustainable energy requires comprehensive studies and cooperation, especially as climate change continues to impact Mediterranean countries. He underlined the need for joint efforts in addressing energy, food, and water security challenges. The three-day conference features panel discussions and interactive workshops with local and international experts. Al-Mukhaizeem also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing renewable energy technologies and solutions aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing waste. – Agencies
Arab Times
11-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait aims for 50% renewable energy use by 2050: Minister
KUWAIT CITY, May 11: Kuwait is aiming for 50% of its electricity to come from renewable sources by 2050, Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy Resources Dr. Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem announced on Sunday. Speaking at the opening of the Kuwait Sustainable Energy Conference and Accompanying Exhibition, Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem emphasized the country's commitment to renewable energy, highlighting the hosting of the Regional Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (RCREEE) as a testament to Kuwait's leadership in the sector. The minister noted that global environmental and economic challenges necessitate investment in renewable energy, describing such initiatives as both a necessity and an opportunity. He reaffirmed Kuwait's dedication to developing eco-friendly projects utilizing clean energy and seeking regional and international partnerships in this endeavor. Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem called for a unified global strategy based on cooperation and the exchange of expertise to find practical and innovative solutions for cleaner energy resources. Ahmad Al-Dosari, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for RCREEE, praised the conference as a significant platform for discussions on renewable energy resources. He commended Kuwait for its efforts in renewable energy, which align with the country's Vision 2035 for development. Dr. Bahjat AbulNasr, representative of the Arab League Secretary General and head of its energy department, stated that the conference provides an opportunity for regional and international partners to exchange views and ideas on renewable energy usage. He affirmed the Arab League's support to ensure the conference's success, including workshops and training courses held alongside the event. Dr. Grammenos Mastrojeni, Senior Deputy Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean, emphasized that renewable energy is not only an environmental measure but also a means to sustain the world and protect it from climate change. He stressed the importance of global cooperation to produce energy that safeguards both the environment and people from natural catastrophes. Dr. Torkild Byg, deputy head of the EU Mission to Kuwait, commended Kuwait's significant role in renewable energy, noting that the conference reflects the country's stance on the issue. He also mentioned Europe's commitment to achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050. The conference, which began on Sunday, will continue until May 13, featuring workshops and sessions led by local and international experts, alongside an accompanying exhibition.
