Qatar plans to build two power plants in Lebanon over the next three years and sign a 20-year deal for liquefied natural gas (LNG) to help improve Lebanon’s struggling power sector. Lebanon’s energy sector has contributed significantly to the national debt since its civil war, yet it fails to provide reliable electricity, with state power only available for a few hours daily. The country relies on costly private diesel generators, causing pollution in cities like Beirut.
Last week, the Qatari Prime Minister promised support for Lebanon’s energy sector, although specific details were not revealed. A proposal seen by Reuters outlines plans for gas-fired power generation, LNG supply, renewable energy sources, battery storage, and electricity connections with neighboring regions. The program aims to secure private funding without requiring upfront public spending, with payment terms to be negotiated.
This plan, known as the National Integrated Energy Investment Program, still needs approval from both the Lebanese and Qatari governments and may be adjusted. If approvals are granted quickly, implementation could occur within three years. The proposal includes two combined-cycle plants in northern and southern Lebanon, each with a capacity of 825 megawatts, along with a 20-year LNG supply agreement. Additionally, it suggests 800 MW of solar and 440 MW of wind power, plus imports from Syria. Past reform efforts in Lebanon’s energy sector have faltered due to political conflicts.
With information from Reuters
