The General Electricity Company of Libya (GECOL) announced on Thursday the launch of a new power generation project at the Al-Zawiya Combined Cycle Power Plant, which will operate without the need for fuel.
The announcement came during a meeting held at GECOL’s headquarters, attended by representatives from the company, ALGIC Energy, Fuji, the Japanese manufacturer of steam generation units at the Al-Zawiya plant, and the Turkish company ENUR.
According to GECOL, the project will involve extensive overhauls of three steam generation units, steam generators, and all related components. A roadmap has also been developed to implement these overhauls within a specified timeline.
The initiative is expected to generate 450 megawatts of electricity, significantly reducing power generation costs and utilizing a combined cycle system that eliminates the need for fuel combustion.
This move aligns with Libya’s efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and transition towards more sustainable and cost-effective electricity production.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
