The Egyptian government has decided to implement new measures aimed at streamlining energy consumption, in light of rising hydrocarbon costs. Among the main provisions is the early closure of businesses at 9:00 PM for a month.
This decision, announced by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, affects stores, shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes. An exception is made for Thursdays and Fridays, with closure extended to 10:00 PM. These measures will take effect on March 28.
According to the authorities, this initiative aims to alleviate pressure on the electrical grid, particularly during peak consumption hours, while avoiding resorting to more restrictive measures.
The plan also includes other actions, such as turning off illuminated advertising panels on roads and the early closure of certain administrative buildings, particularly in the new capital, where activities must end by 6:00 PM.
Furthermore, the government intends to introduce, after the Eid Al-Fitr holiday, a telecommuting system for public administrations, allowing one to two days per week, excluding productive, industrial, and health sectors.
These decisions come amid significantly rising energy prices. Authorities have indicated that the cost of natural gas imports has increased considerably, as have prices for oil and derived products, due to regional geopolitical tensions.
At the same time, it has been decided to temporarily postpone certain diesel-intensive projects to ease pressure on energy resources.
The government emphasizes that these measures are part of a gradual approach to control consumption without overburdening citizens, in an economic context marked by rising fuel and commodity prices.