In Lebanon, the electricity generated in 2023 shows a valuable shift toward cleaner energy, although fossil fuels still hold a slightly larger share. Over half of the electricity, about 53%, comes from fossil energy sources, indicating a heavy dependence on non-clean energy sources. However, low-carbon energy has made notable inroads, constituting roughly 47% of the electricity generation. Notably, solar energy provides more than 30% of the electricity, and hydropower adds around 15%, demonstrating the country's significant strides towards incorporating cleaner, sustainable technologies into the energy mix.

Is Electricity Growing in Lebanon?

When it comes to overall electricity consumption in Lebanon, there has been a substantial decline over recent years. The latest figures, at 783 kWh per person in 2023, are far removed from the 2019 levels, which reached a high of 3741 kWh per person, representing a concerning drop of nearly 3000 kWh. Despite this decline in total consumption, there has been a slightly positive trend within the low-carbon sector. Low-carbon electricity generation saw a modest increase of 24 kWh per person compared to 2022, reaching 371 kWh per person in 2023. While this increase is encouraging, the overall decline in electricity consumption presents a challenge that must be addressed as the nation moves toward cleaner energy.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Lebanon can prioritize expanding its existing solar infrastructure, which already contributes significantly to the energy mix. Looking at successful regions, Lebanon can draw inspiration from countries such as Denmark where wind power accounts for 60% of electricity or France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy contributes 67% and 65%, respectively. The commitment of these regions to wind and nuclear technologies highlights pathways through which Lebanon can diversify its clean energy portfolio. Encouraging solar and considering the development of nuclear energy would not only support electricity demand but also help mitigate the harmful effects of fossil fuels, such as climate change and air pollution, furthering Lebanon’s transition to a sustainable energy future.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Lebanon shows periods of growth and fall in hydropower and a recent rise in solar energy. In the early 1980s, there was a slight decline in hydropower, with variations quite evident over the years. The late 1990s and early 2000s saw marked improvements with several increases, notably in 2002 and 2003. However, progress was inconsistent, and setbacks occurred, especially with a significant reduction in 2014. In recent years, solar energy emerged as a rising contributor, with noticeable increases in 2021 and 2022, highlighting the country's potential to capture and utilize solar power effectively. This positive momentum is an encouraging sign for future advancements in Lebanon’s low-carbon electricity sector.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade