QatarEnergy and France’s TotalEnergies plan to jointly develop a solar power plant in Lebanon as Beirut seeks solutions to its persistent electricity shortages.
Qatar has announced plans to develop a solar power plant in Lebanon in partnership with French energy company TotalEnergies, as the Gulf state steps up efforts to support the country’s electricity sector and encourage economic investment.
The announcement followed a meeting between Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam in Beirut on Friday. The two leaders agreed to establish a comprehensive framework for cooperation in the energy sector and explore practical solutions to Lebanon’s persistent electricity shortages.
As part of the initiative, QatarEnergy has reached an agreement with TotalEnergies to jointly develop a solar power plant in Lebanon. The project is intended to serve as an initial step toward expanding the country’s renewable energy capacity.
Speaking after the meeting, the Qatari prime minister said the initiative aimed to encourage substantial investment that would benefit Lebanon’s economy while creating opportunities for Qatari companies and institutions.
The announcement highlights Qatar’s interest in strengthening economic ties with Lebanon through investment in key sectors, particularly energy, which remains central to the country’s recovery and development.
Lebanon Seeks Solutions to Long-Running Electricity Crisis
Lebanon has faced a prolonged electricity crisis marked by inadequate power generation and financial difficulties. Persistent shortages have placed pressure on households, businesses and public services, while unreliable electricity supplies continue to hinder economic activity.
The planned solar power plant could help diversify Lebanon’s energy mix and provide an additional source of electricity. Expanding renewable energy generation may also reduce some pressure on conventional power infrastructure.
However, the project’s potential contribution to Lebanon’s electricity supply will depend on its final capacity, financing arrangements, construction timeline and integration with the country’s electricity network.
No details about the plant’s planned generating capacity, total investment or construction schedule were immediately available.
Energy Projects to Be Presented to Lebanese Cabinet
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said electricity-related projects would soon be presented to the cabinet for consideration.
The proposed solar development comes as Lebanon seeks ways to address its infrastructure challenges and attract investment to support its struggling economy. Cooperation with international energy companies could provide an avenue for developing additional generation capacity, although the project’s final scope and implementation arrangements remain unclear.
For Qatar, the initiative represents an opportunity to deepen economic cooperation with Lebanon while supporting efforts to address a critical infrastructure problem.
The planned solar power plant could become part of broader Qatar-Lebanon cooperation in the energy sector. Its eventual impact, however, will depend on whether the project moves forward and how effectively the new capacity can be incorporated into Lebanon’s electricity system.
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