In 2023, electricity consumption in Lebanon is almost evenly split between fossil and low-carbon sources. With fossil fuels accounting for slightly more than half of the electricity usage at around 53%, the remainder is powered by clean energy. The country's clean electricity generation is majorly driven by solar, which makes up almost a third of the total electricity consumption, and hydropower, contributing roughly 15%. This diversified mix of energy sources showcases Lebanon's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future.

Is Electricity Growing in Lebanon?

The state of electricity consumption in Lebanon is concerning due to a significant decrease since its peak in 2019. In 2023, per capita electricity usage stands at approximately 783 kWh, marking a drastic decline of nearly 3,000 kWh from the previous high of 3,741 kWh in 2019. This substantial drop highlights a worrying trend that needs addressing to ensure Lebanon's electricity needs are met. However, there is a silver lining in the low-carbon segment; the latest figures indicate per capita low-carbon electricity generation rose slightly to 371 kWh from the 2022 record of 346 kWh, showing a modest but positive increase.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation in Lebanon, expanding the already significant solar energy sector could be remarkably effective. The country can draw inspiration from regions that have successfully integrated clean technologies into their energy grids. For instance, countries with high nuclear energy shares like France and Slovakia, leading with around 67% and 66%, respectively, demonstrate the potential for nuclear power to contribute significantly to energy security. Moreover, successes in wind energy can be gleaned from states like Iowa and Denmark, where wind constitutes over half of their electricity generation. By investing in solar and potentially introducing nuclear energy technology, Lebanon can bolster its clean energy capacity and reduce dependency on fossil fuels, mitigating climate change impacts and promoting energy independence.

History

Examining the historical trajectory of low-carbon electricity in Lebanon reveals a series of fluctuations predominantly seen in hydropower generation. Throughout the 1980s, changes in hydropower were minor and somewhat inconsistent, with modest increments in the early 1990s. The late 1990s and early 2000s experienced mixed shifts, with increments and reductions nearly balancing each other out. The 2010s saw notable fluctuations, particularly a substantial decline in 2014 but bouncing back somewhat in 2019. A more consistent trajectory is seen post-2020, with solar energy making prospectively stable yet gradual increases. In 2022, a notable growth occurred with solar power rising significantly by 1 TWh, highlighting the potential for consistent advancement in Lebanon’s low-carbon electricity technology.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade