Qatar Pledges 'Massive' Solar Plant for Lebanon to Combat Energy Crisis

Qatar's Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, announced plans during a visit to Beirut on Friday to establish a significant solar power plant in Lebanon. This initiative aims to alleviate the country's persistent energy crisis. Following a meeting with his Lebanese counterpart, Nawaf Salam, Sheikh Mohammed stated, "We have agreed to establish a comprehensive framework for cooperation in the energy sector and to present viable solutions." QatarEnergy and the French company TotalEnergies have entered into an agreement to jointly develop this solar power plant as an initial project, intended as a major investment beneficial to both the Lebanese economy and the participating Qatari companies and entities.

Prime Minister Salam indicated that the proposal for Lebanon’s electricity sector would be presented to the Lebanese Cabinet shortly. He emphasized that the Qatari side would fully fund, implement, and activate the project without any financial burden on the Lebanese state, highlighting its importance amidst the nation's financial crisis. Lebanon's state electricity company has historically been a major source of debt, incurring approximately $40 billion over decades due to a large workforce and outdated infrastructure, and currently provides only a few hours of electricity daily.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed Doha's solidarity with the Lebanese people and the wider region during this challenging period. Discussions also encompassed the situation in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have been conducting operations. The Qatari Prime Minister noted that "Israeli violations within the Lebanese territories" were a significant topic of conversation, advocating for Israel's withdrawal and cessation of attacks. Qatar is collaborating with the United States to prepare for future reconstruction efforts in southern Lebanon to facilitate the return of displaced individuals.

Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon have persisted despite a ceasefire agreement reached in June, brokered by the US, which stipulated the disarmament of Iran-backed Hezbollah in exchange for a gradual Israeli withdrawal. However, Hezbollah is not a party to this agreement and has refused to disarm until Israel withdraws from the country. Lebanese authorities report that Israeli attacks since March have resulted in over 4,300 fatalities and displaced approximately 1.2 million people at the peak of the conflict. According to the International Organization for Migration, over 300,000 people remain displaced despite most having returned home since the June ceasefire.

Lebanon's Prime Minister Salam conveyed his gratitude to Qatar for its ongoing support during what he described as some of Lebanon’s "darkest hours."