Energy Minister: Lebanon’s electricity crisis due to external, internal factors

Energy and Water Minister, Walid Fayyad, on Tuesday attributed Lebanon's electricity crisis and the risk of nationwide blackout to two primary factors. The first is external: the U.S. sanctions imposed under the Caesar Act, which have restricted Lebanon's access to fuel resources despite agreements with Egypt and Jordan. The second factor is internal: political infighting among local parties. In an interview with Sputnik Radio, Fayyad revealed that the Lebanese authorities received a U.S. message two years ago promising a resolution to the Caesar Act sanctions. "However, no progress has been made, and the conditions have shifted from administrative to financial and security-related, particularly concerning Israeli security," Fayyad added, stressing that Lebanon seeks aid without such conditions. Moreover, the Energy Minister announced that the "Spot Cargo" shipment, containing 30,000 tons of gas oil, was expected to arrive in Lebanon on August 24. 'This shipment will provide 600 megawatts of electricity, equivalent to about six hours of daily power supply. The Lebanese Electricity Authority has instructed the Central Bank to open the necessary credits to facilitate the fuel's arrival on schedule,' Fayyad explained, noting that the crisis has had a positive side, prompting friendly nations to assist Lebanon. "Iraq has reaffirmed its commitment to support Lebanon, and Algeria has provided a fuel donation to help avoid a complete blackout," Fayyad concluded. Source: National news agency - Lebanon