Qatar announces major solar power project to address Lebanon’s energy crisis

Qatar has announced plans for a major solar power project in Lebanon as the Gulf state steps up efforts to help the country address its long-running electricity crisis and attract investment into its struggling economy.

The announcement came after Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani met his Lebanese counterpart, 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 electricity challenges.

As part of the initiative, QatarEnergy has reached an agreement with French energy giant TotalEnergies to jointly develop a solar power plant in Lebanon as an initial project.

The proposed development is expected to represent an important step towards expanding Lebanon’s renewable energy capacity and supporting efforts to improve electricity supplies in a country that has faced persistent power shortages.

Speaking after the meeting, the Qatari prime minister said the initiative was designed to encourage substantial investment that would benefit Lebanon’s economy while also creating opportunities for participating Qatari companies and institutions.

The announcement signals Qatar’s continued interest in supporting Lebanon’s economic recovery through strategic investments, particularly in sectors critical to the country’s development.

Lebanon has struggled with a prolonged electricity crisis, with inadequate power generation and financial difficulties placing significant pressure on households, businesses and public services. Reliable electricity supplies remain a major challenge for the country’s economic recovery.

Solar energy could offer an additional source of electricity while helping Lebanon diversify its energy mix and reduce some of the pressure on its conventional power infrastructure. However, the project’s eventual impact will depend on its implementation, financing and connection to the country’s electricity network.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said electricity-related projects would soon be presented to the cabinet for consideration.

Further details about the solar plant’s capacity, construction schedule and total investment were not immediately available.

The project could become a significant part of broader efforts to strengthen Qatar-Lebanon economic ties while addressing one of Lebanon’s most pressing infrastructure challenges.