As of 2023, Lebanon's electricity consumption is nearly evenly split between fossil fuels and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil fuels account for slightly more than half of the total electricity generation at about 53%, while low-carbon sources contribute nearly 47%. Solar energy is a significant clean contributor, providing almost a third of the country's electricity at about 31%. In contrast, hydropower contributes around 15%, demonstrating a reliance on specific low-carbon technologies. This balanced consumption landscape indicates Lebanon's potential to further transition to cleaner energy, which is crucial for reducing both air pollution and the impacts of climate change.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Lebanon?
Recent trends in electricity consumption in Lebanon reveal a considerable downturn in total electricity usage per capita, which is cause for concern. In 2023, electricity consumption fell to 783 kWh per person, a dramatic reduction from the previous record of 3741 kWh per person in 2019, representing a decline of about 2959 kWh per person. However, there is a glimmer of hope in the realm of low-carbon electricity, which has seen a slight increase. The latest figures indicate a low-carbon electricity generation of 371 kWh per person, up from 346 kWh per person last year, suggesting modest progress in clean energy expansion, even amidst broader consumption challenges.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Lebanon should focus on solar energy expansion, which is already contributing significantly to its electricity mix. By learning from countries with successful low-carbon strategies, Lebanon could further diversify its energy portfolio. For instance, France and Ukraine have achieved impressive nuclear energy success, with more than half of their electricity coming from this source. By considering nuclear energy alongside solar, Lebanon could enhance its clean electricity generation. Additionally, Denmark and Iowa have harnessed the potential of wind power, contributing over 50% of their electricity from this technology. Integrating these insights, Lebanon could strategically expand its clean electricity capacity, ensuring a sustainable and secure energy future.
History
Looking into the history of low-carbon electricity in Lebanon, we observe fluctuating developments over the years, particularly in hydropower. The 1980s and 1990s saw modest increments and reductions, with the early 2000s showing some positive strides in hydropower increases. However, subsequent years were marked by inconsistencies, with notable declines like in 2014. Encouragingly, in the 2020s, solar energy emerged as a vital contributor, with significant growth in recent years, especially in 2022 with an increase of 1 TWh. This indicates Lebanon's growing focus on solar as a pillar for its clean energy transition, signaling an opportunity for strategic capacity building in the solar sector for sustained, clean electricity growth.
