Kuwait has officially reduced working hours across government institutions during the summer season as authorities move to ease pressure on the national electricity grid amid soaring temperatures and rising energy demand.
The decision came after Kuwait’s Civil Service Council approved a proposal to reduce official working hours in government entities from seven hours to six hours daily during the summer months.
According to local officials, the measure forms part of a broader national strategy aimed at lowering electricity consumption during peak demand hours, particularly between 11am and 5pm.
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Government sources said the reduced schedule would remain in place for three months.
The Civil Service Commission is expected to announce detailed implementation procedures and operational guidelines in the coming days.
Under the plan, the flexible morning attendance window will narrow to one hour, from 7am to 8am, while evening shifts will begin at 5pm.
Officials say the move aims to reduce pressure on Kuwait’s electricity network during periods of extreme summer heat, when cooling systems sharply increase energy consumption across the Gulf state.
Factories also cut operations during peak hours
Sources familiar with the policy said factories have already started reducing production activities during peak periods to support grid stability.
The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy said it continues implementing multiple measures to rationalise electricity and water consumption.
The ministry also urged citizens and businesses to adopt responsible consumption habits during the summer season.
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Authorities warned that rising temperatures and increasing demand for utilities could place additional stress on national infrastructure if conservation efforts fail.
Kuwait regularly records some of the world’s highest summer temperatures, with daytime heat often crossing 50 degrees Celsius during peak months.
Like several Gulf countries, Kuwait relies heavily on air conditioning systems that consume large amounts of electricity during the summer.
Analysts say the latest measures reflect growing regional concerns over energy sustainability and power grid resilience as climate conditions intensify.
Gulf countries face growing energy pressures
Several Gulf nations have recently introduced energy-saving initiatives to manage electricity demand during extreme weather conditions.
Countries across the region have accelerated investments in renewable energy projects, smart grids and water conservation systems to reduce pressure on public utilities.
Kuwait has also expanded renewable energy projects under its long-term sustainability plans, including the development of solar power facilities designed to diversify the country’s energy mix.
Energy experts say temporary reductions in office hours can help lower cooling demand in government buildings and reduce strain on national grids during critical periods.
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The latest announcement also comes as Gulf countries face rising electricity consumption due to population growth, urban expansion and prolonged heatwaves linked to climate change.
Officials in Kuwait say maintaining grid stability remains a top priority during the summer months.
The government expects the reduced working hours and conservation measures to help prevent major electricity disruptions while supporting more efficient energy use nationwide.
