Egypt is working to restore normal natural gas production at its fields by next summer, according to Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.
He stated that production had decreased due to outstanding payments owed to production companies.
Madbouly did not disclose the exact amount of the government’s arrears or when they might be repaid.
Earlier this year, sources reported that the government had allocated up to $1.5 billion for payments to foreign oil and gas companies operating in Egypt.
The arrears accumulated during a period of foreign currency shortages, which have recently improved.
Egypt has been facing power shortages due to high demand for cooling during the summer months.
Natural gas is a primary fuel source for electricity generation in the country.
The government temporarily halted power cuts in July after receiving natural gas shipments.
Prime Minister Madbouly assured that electricity load-shedding will not return.
He added that the government has allocated $2.5 billion to ensure a stable power supply.
Furthermore, Egypt plans to establish a power grid connection with Saudi Arabia in the first phase by the summer of 2025.