What happened to Lebanon's electricity grid?

Lebanon's national grid has struggled to meet the population's full electricity requirements since the country's civil war began in 1975, forcing consumers to rely on expensive neighbourhood generators to fill the gaps. The civil war ended in 1990 but the grid problems continued.

Does Lebanon need solar power?

Lebanon has a target to source 30% of its electricity from renewables by 2030. However, some argue that LCEC and Lebanon's government have played little role in the rollout of solar in the country.

Can Lebanon get 30% of its electricity from renewable sources?

Nevertheless, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that Lebanon could cost-effectively source 30% of its electricity supply from renewable sources by 2030 – if the right plans are put in place. Lebanon has a large amount of land that is appropriate for solar and wind energy and receives roughly 300 days of sunshine annually.

How much does a solar energy system cost in Lebanon?

But the lack of regulation in the nascent sector also means that prices fluctuate significantly between providers and regions. Samir Haj Ali, a local solar energy systems provider in southern Lebanon, told FRANCE 24 that he charges at least $2,500 for a modest 5-amp energy system – a price that is out of reach for most Lebanese.

How does Lebanon's energy crisis affect people's lives?

As Lebanon's energy crisis cripples the country's infrastructure and the daily lives of the Lebanese, citizens are finding new ways to manage. Mohammed Nehme, a high-school teacher from southern Lebanon, asked his brother in Germany to loan him a few thousand dollars to install a solar energy system for his household.

Why are Lebanese turning to solar energy?

Almost three years into Lebanon’s trifecta of economic, social and political crises, many Lebanese are desperate to find solutions. With no reliable source of electricity, those who can afford it are leading a shift towards green energy, predominantly solar.