Diversification of energy sources is a good idea that was implemented incorrectly

Egypt’s plans to diversify its energy sources was a well-intentioned idea that was implemented incorrectly: While stepping away from reliance on natural gas is a smart move, having wide diversity in energy sources should not be a goal in itself, Ragia El Gerzawy says in a column penned for Al Masry Al Youm. El Gerzawy notes that choosing the correct mix of energy sources aims to offer energy at reasonable prices, without harming the environment or people’s health, and that coal — which Egypt plans on relying on for 29% of its energy source mix — does not fit the bill. Coal was popular in the early days of energy production in Europe because it was plentiful, but it doesn’t make sense in Egypt when we have many other sources that are less harmful (hint: solar and wind power), she says.