Egypt has increased electricity prices for higher-use residential consumers and commercial users starting in April, the electricity ministry said on Saturday, citing a severe global energy crisis linked to the war in the Gulf region.
The price adjustment is part of a series of government measures aimed at reducing energy consumption and easing growing financial pressure as rising import costs strain the country’s economy.
In a statement, the ministry explained that lower-consumption households will not be affected, as the increases are targeted only at higher-use groups and commercial users to help maintain stable electricity supply across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, as seen on Reuters.
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Electricity tariffs for residential users consuming up to 2,000 kilowatt-hours per month will remain unchanged, while those in higher consumption brackets will see an average increase of 16%. Commercial electricity prices across all categories will rise by about 20%, the ministry added.
Mostafa Madbouly said in March that Egypt’s energy import bill has more than doubled since the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran began.
He noted that the situation has forced the government to raise fuel prices, increase public transport fares, and delay some state projects to reduce pressure on public finances.
Egypt had already introduced measures in March to manage energy use, including setting earlier closing hours for commercial venues, as global oil prices climbed during the conflict.
The country is also dealing with heavy debt, with interest payments taking up about half of government spending this fiscal year. Inflation has remained in double digits after reaching a peak of 38% in September 2023.
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