In a strategic move aimed at strengthening infrastructure and supporting the stability of essential services in the Republic of Yemen, the Saudi agreement to operate 70 Yemeni power plants comes as a lifeline to the energy sector, which is facing severe challenges. This initiative is an integral part of the ongoing efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen, to ensure the continuity of electricity supply and alleviate the suffering of the brotherly Yemeni people.
Details of operational support for power plants
The agreement includes detailed operational mechanisms to ensure the functioning of over 70 power plants distributed across various liberated Yemeni governorates. This support extends beyond technical aspects, closely linked to the provision of the necessary petroleum derivatives for these plants' operation. This guarantees the sustainability of the service and reduces power outages that have negatively impacted citizens' daily lives. This initiative comes in response to the urgent need to improve the efficiency of power generation and meet the growing demand for electricity, particularly during the summer months, which witness a significant increase in demand.
General context and the energy crisis in Yemen
Since the outbreak of the political and military crisis, Yemen's electricity sector has suffered a severe deterioration in its infrastructure, with many power plants experiencing breakdowns or complete shutdowns due to fuel shortages and a lack of regular maintenance. This situation has led to prolonged power outages, casting a dark shadow over other vital sectors. Historically, Saudi Arabia has been the primary supporter of this sector, providing previous grants of petroleum derivatives that helped keep the power plants running for years. This new agreement builds upon those efforts and lays the foundation for a more stable phase.
The economic and humanitarian importance of the agreement
The importance of operating the 70 power stations is not limited to providing lighting for homes, but extends to include extremely important economic and humanitarian dimensions:
- Supporting the Yemeni economy: Providing fuel and operational support from the Saudi side contributes to easing the pressure on the Yemeni government's budget, thus saving hard currency that was being drained in purchasing fuel from global markets, and thus supporting the stability of the local currency exchange rate.
- Continued provision of essential services: Hospitals, schools, and water pumping stations rely entirely on electricity. Operating these facilities ensures the continued provision of healthcare, education, and access to clean water for citizens, thus limiting the spread of diseases and epidemics.
- Stimulating the commercial cycle: Stable electricity helps operate factories, small workshops and shops, which contributes to preserving sources of income for Yemeni families and reducing unemployment rates.
Regional and international impact
This agreement underscores the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s leading role in the region as a stabilizing and developmental force. By supporting and empowering Yemeni government institutions to deliver services, the Kingdom contributes to strengthening security and stability in Yemen, which positively impacts regional security and international waterways. This step also reaffirms to the international community the commitment of the coalition and donors to the development track alongside the political and humanitarian tracks.
In conclusion, the agreement to operate 70 Yemeni power stations represents a fundamental pillar in the reconstruction project, and a lifeline that provides Yemenis with hope for restoring normal life and overcoming the repercussions of the lean years, confirming the depth of the fraternal ties and common destiny between the two countries.
