In Conversation with Helmy Abouleish on Driving Sustainability and Renewable Energy in Egypt

Helmy Abouleish, CEO of SEKEM Initiative, discusses Egypt's renewable energy future, the role of regenerative agriculture, and how private sector collaboration can accelerate the country’s transition to sustainable energy solutions.

In the lead-up to Egypt Energy 2024, the conversation around sustainability and renewable energy is more pressing than ever. Egypt has made notable progress in diversifying its energy mix, with initiatives like the Benban Solar Park marking significant milestones. However, there is still much to be done to ensure a holistic and sustainable energy future.

In this interview, Helmy Abouleish, CEO of SEKEM Initiative and a pioneer in sustainable development, shares his insights on Egypt’s path forward.

From integrating regenerative agriculture into energy strategies to the essential role of the private sector, Mr. Abouleish highlights the innovative solutions and collaborative efforts necessary to achieve Egypt’s energy goals.

Interviewer: Egypt has made significant strides in renewable energy, particularly with projects like the Benban Solar Park. What do you believe are the next key areas of focus for Egypt to further diversify its energy mix and achieve its sustainability goals?

Mr. Abouleish: The Benban Solar Park represents a pivotal advancement in Egypt's energy diversification strategy. However, the transition to renewable energy should be part of a broader, integrated approach that incorporates bioenergy from regenerative agricultural practices and natural resources. Regenerative agriculture, including biodynamic and organic practices, prioritizes natural processes and minimizes synthetic inputs; significantly reduces dependence on fossil fuels. These methods also enhance soil health, decrease pesticide usage through integrated pest management, and foster biodiversity, which is essential for ecosystem stability. Moreover, such practices lower overall energy consumption in agriculture and promote carbon sequestration, effectively mitigating climate change while improving soil quality.

In addition to advancements in agriculture, it is crucial to prioritize the transition to renewable energy sources. At SEKEM, we are actively engaged in various projects aimed at achieving this goal. Notably, Heliopolis University, a SEKEM institution, has become the first university in Egypt to operate on renewable energy. This milestone was achieved through the installation of two solar stations that collectively generate 124 kilowatts for the university facilities, significantly reducing carbon emissions and promoting self-sufficiency. The university’s Faculty of Engineering offers specialized programs in Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering, focusing on Energy Efficiency and Energy Systems. These programs cover essential topics such as energy generation, transmission, distribution, and the optimization of energy-efficient systems.

Additionally, the university provides a Master's Program in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in Buildings. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the growing demand for sustainable building solutions. 

SEKEM's commitment to renewable energy extends to our farm in Al Wahat El-Bahariya, where we are transitioning entirely to sustainable energy solutions. We have installed solar pumps for irrigation, significantly reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and demonstrating the tangible benefits of solar technology. Additionally, we utilize a pivot night irrigation system that harnesses solar energy to power irrigation equipment, enabling efficient and environmentally friendly watering of crops during the night.

Furthermore, extending access to renewable energy in rural communities not only empowers local populations but also addresses socio-economic disparities. This initiative aligns with SEKEM's Vision 2057, which aims to create a sustainable transformation across Egypt by integrating environmental, economic, cultural, and social goals. 

By focusing on these areas, We believe Egypt can further diversify its energy mix, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and achieve its sustainability goals while setting an example for clean energy solutions.

Interviewer: The energy transition is a key theme at this year’s Egypt Energy event. What are the biggest challenges Egypt faces in transitioning from traditional energy sources to more sustainable alternatives, and how can these be addressed?

Mr. Abouleish: We acknowledge the essential link between energy, agriculture, and societal well-being. Beyond tackling the issue of depending on fossil fuels, raising awareness about pressing environmental issues, particularly climate change, is critical for fostering meaningful change at both local and global levels.

At the upcoming COP29, we are initiating a call to action in collaboration with our partners to advocate for organic agriculture as a viable solution to multiple challenges, including climate change. We believe in biodynamic agriculture, a sustainable method that not only boosts energy production but also enhances soil health and promotes carbon sequestration. Our Economy of Love (EoL) standard provides a comprehensive framework that integrates economic, social, cultural, and ecological aspects. This standard is designed to empower farmers by incentivizing sustainable practices, thereby enhancing their livelihoods as they transition to regenerative agriculture. Through various initiatives, the EoL standard supports farmers in adopting practices that not only restore soil health but also promote biodiversity and resilience against climate change.

To make this transition successful, we need to invest in renewable energy research and development. We are also dedicated to this effort, driven by our "EoL" standard, which focuses on working together for a sustainable future. Additionally, establishing a comprehensive policy framework that encourages sustainable energy initiatives through public-private partnerships and international cooperation is vital for mobilizing resources and expertise.

Interviewer: Given your extensive experience in sustainable development, what role do you think Egypt’s private sector should play in accelerating the adoption of renewable energy solutions, and how can collaboration between businesses and the government enhance this transition?

Mr. Abouleish: We believe that the transition towards renewable energy in Egypt requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders. Real progress occurs when the private sector, government, and civil society work together. We believe the private sector should take the lead in setting an example for all by investing in reducing their carbon footprint and offsetting their emissions to achieve net-zero targets. 

The private sector, including SEKEM, plays a crucial role in driving investment and launching innovative renewable energy projects. Our initiatives in organic and biodynamic farming, alongside renewable energy ventures, demonstrate that sustainable practices are not only feasible but also economically advantageous.

It is also essential to establish strong policies that support renewable energy initiatives. Ongoing dialogues between the government, businesses, and civil society are vital for refining these policies and creating a favorable environment for investment. 

Interviewer: At a time when climate change is a pressing concern globally, how important is it for Egypt to align its energy strategies with global sustainability goals, and what role can events like Egypt Energy play in fostering international cooperation?

Mr. Abouleish: Aligning Egypt's energy strategies with global sustainability goals is essential in the face of pressing climate change challenges which affect all of us. This alignment not only enhances our country's resilience against environmental impacts, such as water scarcity and extreme weather, but also supports economic diversification and attracting foreign investment in the green sector. 

We need more events similar to the Egypt Energy Conference that play a crucial role in fostering international cooperation by providing networking opportunities for stakeholders, showcasing innovations in renewable technologies, and influencing policy development through the sharing of successful case studies. 

Interviewer: As Egypt continues to position itself as a regional energy hub, how do you see the country balancing its ambitions for economic growth with the need to ensure energy security and sustainability in the long term?

Mr. Abouleish: Achieving a sustainable energy future requires a multifaceted strategy that includes investing in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, which are abundant in our country. These resources not only provide clean energy but also create jobs and stimulate local economies. Enhancing energy efficiency through conservation practices is essential to reduce consumption and minimize waste, while promoting a circular economy that maximizes resource utilization. 

At SEKEM, our experience demonstrates that organic and biodynamic farming can significantly contribute to energy security; our farms produce compost for renewable energy generation and employ sustainable practices that improve soil health and biodiversity. Through our Economy of Love (EoL) standard, we advocate for a holistic approach that integrates economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social equity, emphasizing the empowerment of farmers. This involves conducting awareness sessions on biodynamic farming, supported by experienced agricultural engineers who guide farmers throughout their training and farming processes. Additionally, we provide essential resources such as biofertilizers and natural pest control solutions, along with financing options through the "Economy of Love" Fund, which helps smallholder farmers generate income through carbon credits. 

We are working to facilitate a seamless transition to sustainability by empowering farmers and enhancing their livelihoods. We believe that this model can be successfully replicated across Egypt and even the world, to achieve energy security and sustainability, all while fostering economic growth.

Join us at Egypt Energy, North Africa’s largest energy gathering with a legacy of 32 years in the region, taking place this year from 26 – 28 November at Egypt International Exhibition Centre, Cairo.  

The show brings together energy manufacturers and suppliers from all over the world to showcase new technologies and innovative solutions covering the entire energy value chain from power generators, energy storage and energy management systems, high and low voltage cables, energy transmission and distribution, solar panels, solar power, and green energy. Register now!