Baseline (Scoping) Study, Dataset

Aquaculture is vital to Egypt’s economy and food security, with farmed fish accounting for 78% of all aquatic foods consumed domestically. The industry has progressed from traditional extensive systems to modern semi-intensive and intensive systems, driven by government policies and private investments. However, the sector also exerts significant environmental pressures through resource use and emissions, highlighting the need for sustainability improvements. A detailed baseline survey was conducted in Kafr el Sheikh, Port Said, Sharkia, Beheira, and Damietta Governorates, covering 300 tilapia aquaculture farms, hatcheries, and women retailers. The survey included interviews with farm and hatchery owners, managers, and women participants. The data collected provides an overview of the status and utilization of renewable energy among different aquaculture value chain actors. It assesses the cost-effectiveness of renewable energy-powered technologies within the aquaculture value chain in Egypt, identifies critical factors limiting the use of renewable energy, and explores opportunities for women and youth empowerment within the sector. The analysis also considers climate change constraints and examines various renewable energy solutions for Egyptian aquaculture farms, focusing on tilapia as the most widely produced species. Additionally, the report reflects on the potential benefits of these solutions in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions from Egyptian aquaculture, while briefly considering the socioeconomic implications and feasibility of these interventions.