CAIRO, April 6 – Egypt has increased electricity prices for high-use households and commercial consumers from April, as rising global energy costs continue to strain public finances.
According to the electricity ministry, residential users consuming above 2,000 kilowatt-hours per month will see tariffs rise by an average of 16%, while commercial users across all bands face increases of about 20%. Lower-consumption households will not be affected, as the government moves to cushion vulnerable groups while managing demand.
The adjustment comes amid mounting pressure on Egypt’s energy bill. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly recently disclosed that the country’s import costs have more than doubled since the outbreak of conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, driven by higher global oil prices.
In response, authorities have rolled out a series of measures aimed at reducing energy consumption and easing fiscal pressure. These include raising fuel prices, increasing public transport fares and introducing earlier closing hours for commercial activities.
Egypt’s fiscal position remains under strain. Interest payments are projected to account for nearly half of total government spending this fiscal year, reflecting the country’s heavy debt burden.
At the same time, inflation has stayed elevated, remaining in double digits after peaking at 38% in September 2023.
