Transport Blocked, Then Army Intervenes: What Happened with Electricite du Liban?

Electricite du Liban issued the following statement:

"Electricite du Liban announces that on 29/9/2026, one of the 20 MVA power transformers at the Boulos Arqash station in the Litani Utility failed. This transformer supplies wide areas of Jezzine, Iqlim al-Kharroub, and their surroundings, leading to a severe shortage in electricity supply in these regions.

Following this, Electricite du Liban attempted to replace the faulty transformer with one of the similar spare transformers located at the Jabal Qannin station. However, technical teams faced objections from some residents and local figures and were forcibly prevented from completing the transfer of the spare transformer, noting that its removal does not affect the electricity supply to the Jabal Qannin station and neighboring areas.

In this context, the utility clarifies that the spare transformer at Jabal Qannin has a capacity of 20 MVA and had been in service for several years. Due to the need to meet additional loads at the Jabal Qannin station and the Western Bekaa region, it was replaced by a larger transformer with a capacity of 40 MVA, and the old transformer was set aside to be used as a spare on the Lebanese network where needed.

Faced with this situation, after making the necessary contacts and coordinating with security forces, the Lebanese Army, and relevant political figures, the utility managed on 6/11/2026 to complete the transfer of the transformer from the Jabal Qannin station with the support of the Lebanese Army, paving the way for its installation at the Boulos Arqash station in the coming days, aiming to restore normal electricity supply to Jezzine, Iqlim al-Kharroub, and their surroundings.

In conclusion, Electricite du Liban extends its thanks to His Excellency the President of the Republic for his follow-up on this matter, which contributed to overcoming obstacles and completing the transfer operation. It also specifically thanks the security forces, particularly the Lebanese Army, for accompanying the technical teams and providing the necessary protection during the execution of the mission."