Minister Al-Saddi Hosts World Bank Workshop on Electricity Distribution Reform

As part of the Ministry of Energy and Water's efforts to reform Lebanon's electricity sector and enhance the distribution segment by involving the private sector, Minister of Energy and Water Jo Al-Saddi sponsored a workshop prepared and conducted by the World Bank. The workshop presented a study carried out by the World Bank in coordination with the Electricity Sector Regulatory Authority and the Electricité du Liban institution. The six-month study aims to explore ways to improve the performance and efficiency of the electricity distribution sector by engaging the private sector, based on effective models and international experience. Al-Saddi emphasized the importance of this issue within the framework of implementing Electricity Law 462.

The workshop was attended by Minister of Industry Joe Issa Al-Khoury, Minister of Economy Amer Al-Bassat, the Board of Directors of the Electricity Sector Regulatory Authority, the Board of Directors of Electricité du Liban, and several representatives from the private sector and energy-focused non-governmental organizations.

During the workshop, the World Bank consultants from Mai International Energy Consulting presented a medium-term plan for developing the distribution sector and the mechanisms for its implementation, aligned with Law 462. The implementation of this law is among the priorities of the Ministry of Energy and Water.

Mr. Mohammad Qamh, the World Bank representative for the energy sector in Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, affirmed the World Bank's support for reform efforts in the energy sector. He stated that these efforts aim to improve services provided to citizens, enhance the competitiveness of the Lebanese economy, and create job opportunities.