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Az Zour North Power Plant
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The Az Zour North Power Plant is Kuwait's first Independent Water and Power Project (IWPP), representing a turning point in the country's infrastructure development policy. Built between 2013 and 2016, the facility is operated by Shamal Az-Zour Al-Oula and combines high-efficiency power generation with state-of-the-art seawater desalination. With a capacity of approximately 1,539 megawatts and a water output of 486,000 cubic meters per day, it supplies about 10 percent of Kuwait's electricity and 20 percent of its water needs. The project was realized with private sector involvement, a significant departure from the traditionally state-dominated energy sector. The gas-fired plant utilizes advanced turbines and heat recovery systems to optimize fuel utilization. Located on the coast south of Kuwait City, it secures the supply for expanding residential areas and industrial zones. The successful implementation of Phase 1 serves as a model for future infrastructure projects across the entire Middle East region.
- Location: Kuwait
- Top sights: Abdullaziz Al Khaled · Muhammad Ali Al-Alimi
- Nearby: Ali Sabah Al-Salem (28 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 17 | 20 | 24 | 29 | 33 | 35 | 35 | 33 | 30 | 24 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 7 | 12 | 3 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 6 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Az Zour North is Kuwait's pioneering Independent Water and Power Project, playing a highly crucial role in generating electricity and providing desalinated water. It stands as a landmark of public-private partnership, significantly boosting the country's utility infrastructure.
Visiting
As a critical piece of national infrastructure, the power plant and desalination facility are strictly closed to the general public for security and safety reasons. Travelers cannot participate in official tours, but the immense scale of the industrial complex can be appreciated from a distance.
Where to view it
The best way to observe this massive coastal energy project is from the surrounding public highways leading towards the southern coast of Kuwait. Viewing from afar provides a sense of the extensive footprint required for such a dual-purpose modern engineering marvel.
Local products
While there are no products sold directly at the plant, the desalinated water it produces is essential for sustaining local agriculture and businesses across Kuwait. Visitors will experience the indirect benefits of this facility through the availability of resources in nearby towns and markets.
Active season
The facility operates continuously year-round to meet the relentless energy and water demands of the nation. For travelers aiming to photograph the exterior from the road, the cooler winter months between November and March provide the clearest visibility and most comfortable conditions.
Nearby
A passing glimpse of the Az Zour North complex can be easily integrated into a trip exploring the southern beaches of Kuwait or the nearby resorts. It makes for an interesting industrial contrast before relaxing at the coastal chalets or visiting the animated markets of Al Ahmadi governorate.
Geography
Facts
- Supplies 10 percent of power capacity.
- Produces millions of liters of drinking water.
- Completed on time and within budget in 2016.
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Sights in the town Az Zour North Power Plant (2)
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Frequently asked questions
What makes the Az Zour North power plant special?
It is Kuwait's first private-led power and water desalination project.
Where is the facility located?
It is located in southern Kuwait, in the Az Zour district right on the coast.
Is the area open to the public?
No, it is a secured industrial facility.
What is produced here?
Electricity and potable water using modern desalination technologies.
Are there any beaches nearby?
Yes, Az Zour is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
Az Zour North Power Plant: where is it located?
Az Zour North Power Plant is located in Kuwait.
Az Zour North Power Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Abdullaziz Al Khaled, Muhammad Ali Al-Alimi.
Az Zour North Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Dec.
Az Zour North Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Az Zour North Power Plant is Kuwait's first Independent Water and Power Project (IWPP), representing a turning point in the country's infrastructure development policy.
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