Az-Zour North IWPP Phase 2 & 3
Gulf Alliance for Power & Water is publishing the Non-Technical Executive Summary of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Report for the Az-Zour North Independent Water and Power Project in the State of Kuwait.
About the Project
A natural gas-fired Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plant with seawater desalination, built within the existing MEWRE Az-Zour North Complex to meet Kuwait’s growing demand for electricity and water in line with Kuwait Vision 2035.
The Project will use gasoil as back-up fuel and connect to the national grid through an extension of the existing 400 kV substation. The desalination component uses Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO), which requires less energy than thermal technologies.
Electricity demand in Kuwait is projected to grow by about 3% a year through 2040, and water demand by 2.28% a year. The Project is being developed by a consortium of ACWA Power and Gulf Investment Corporation.
- Location
- Az-Zour North Complex, State of Kuwait
- Power technology
- CCGT, two 2+2+1 multi-shaft power blocks
- Water technology
- Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO)
- Grid connection
- 400 kV substation extension
- Development model
- Build, Own and Transfer (BOT)
- Offtaker
- Ministry of Electricity, Water & Renewable Energy
Assessment Highlights
Key findings from the Non-Technical Executive Summary of the ESIA Report.
Air Quality
Baseline monitoring found concentrations within KEPA standards. Operational modelling predicted no exceedance of national standards, and continuous emissions monitoring (CEMS) will be installed on each stack.
Noise & Vibration
Baseline noise is within KEPA limits for industrial areas. Modelling shows operational noise will comply with KEPA and IFC limits at all receptors.
Marine & Water
The plant will return brine and treated effluent through the existing shared outfall, with a wastewater monitoring system tracking pH, oxygen, chlorine, temperature and hydrocarbons.
Soil & Waste
Soil sampling showed no exceedance of reference standards. Project-specific waste, wastewater and spill-prevention plans will manage construction and operation.
Terrestrial Ecology
The site is a modified habitat in an arid industrial zone, assessed as low ecological sensitivity with no fauna or nesting activity recorded.
Stakeholders
Consultation began in January 2026 with neighbouring facilities and the nearest community. Engagement continues through construction and operation.
Indicative Project Schedule
Tentative schedule as stated in the ESIA, subject to adjustment based on final signing dates.
Non-Technical Executive Summary of the ESIA Report
The Non-Technical Executive Summary of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report, prepared for submission to the Kuwait Environment Public Authority (KEPA).
Az-Zour North IWPP Phase 2 & 3 — Non-Technical Executive Summary of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report
English · PDF · Version 1, 22 February 2026 · Prepared by Wataniya Environmental Services Co. with 5 Capitals
Contact Us
For enquiries about the Project or the Non-Technical Executive Summary Report, please get in touch.