Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU) has embarked on a transformative energy strategy, aimed at integrating 4 GW of renewable energy into its national grid by 2035. This ambitious target was disclosed by Prime Minister Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba as part of the National Strategy for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency.
The strategy is a bold move towards diversifying the country’s energy supplies, with a focus on achieving a 20% share from renewables in the next two decades.
The plan is underpinned by four strategic pillars, with a prominent emphasis on deploying solar photovoltaic (PV), and wind capacities. The initial phase focuses on rolling out 1.7 GW of solar PV by 2025, expanding to 3.3 GW by 2035, complemented by 600 MW from wind farms. Additionally, 100 MW is expected from concentrating solar power (CSP) technology by the same year.
A key initiative within the strategy is the promotion of solar panel installations atop public and private buildings, contributing an additional 500 MW. The program also includes the replacement of traditional boilers, with solar-powered alternatives.
Despite the challenges of political unrest, Libya is striving to become a renewable energy leader in North Africa. This shift not only aligns with global climate action, but is also a strategic economic move to diversify away from oil dependency. The recent investment by TotalEnergies in a 500-MW solar project in As-Saddadah, is a testament to the growing confidence in Libya’s renewable sector.
Libya’s embrace of renewable energy is more than an environmental statement; it’s a fundamental component of the nation’s recovery and development plan. Through harnessing its natural resources for clean energy, Libya is not only aiming to provide a stable and sustainable power supply, but also to create job opportunities, stimulate technological innovation, and pave the way for a more resilient and diversified economy. The renewable energy strategy stands as a beacon of hope for Libya’s future, promising environmental benefits and economic prosperity.