The lack of accountability has led to the misuse of public resources in a country with a unique environment and harsh climate. Consequently, the government must ensure a continuous electricity supply everyday year-round to help people cope with the scorching heat. It is worth noting that Kuwait has experienced power outages during the hot summer months for nearly 40 years, resulting in significant financial losses, wasted time, and health problems for patients. The situation has been further exacerbated by the phenomenon of cryptocurrency mining, which consumes vast amounts of electricity.

Therefore, when you hear the Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy and acting Minister of Finance Dr. Subaih Abdulaziz Al-Mukhaizeem explain the causes of the problem, it becomes clear that he is seeking a radical solution to the issue and to prevent waste. However, since one hand cannot clap alone, the cooperation of everyone is required to ensure this crisis does not recur year after year. It is true that the weather is currently improving, but that doesn’t mean the problem has been resolved. While the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy has announced its plan for the next summer, successful implementation will require serious oversight from all parties to prevent any emergency that could disrupt progress. Shutting down cryptocurrency mining operations in Wafra has undoubtedly helped reduce the load, but the crisis is far from over.

According to sources close to the minister, the decision is just the first step on a long journey. It is aimed at curbing power outages caused largely by a lack of awareness about the importance of rationalization. Leaving unused appliances plugged in, running air conditioners while on vacation abroad, and other forms of wasteful consumption contribute to increased costs, which forces the government to expand electrical infrastructure unnecessarily. Neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia, which is both larger in area and population than Kuwait, do not suffer from the same crisis. This is because they have followed parallel strategies that focus on the importance of energy conservation, strict monitoring, and enforcement to prevent mismanagement and waste. Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem explained that the root cause of the crisis lies in years of delayed decision-making. As an expert in the energy sector and its needs, the minister understands the urgency of this phase. Since we are all in the same boat, we must all cooperate to achieve success, not only to resolve the electricity crisis, but to achieve progress in all sectors.