Lebanon’s Ministry of Energy and Water has reportedly initiated the shutdown of electricity supplies to approximately 100 public institutions with outstanding utility bills. This coercive measure marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between Energy Minister Joe Saddi and the broader cabinet, according to regional reports.

Minister Saddi allegedly began boycotting cabinet meetings over claims that the administration has failed to address critical demands to boost electricity generation, alleviate soaring fuel costs, and settle arrears owed to the state utility. Analysts point out that Lebanon's power sector suffers from systemic corruption running into billions of dollars, rendering quick fixes virtually impossible.

State-provided electricity has dwindled dramatically since the 2019 financial collapse, with residents in Beirut receiving mere hours of power daily. This chronic failure has forced the population to rely heavily on private, diesel-munging generators amid a projected surge in inflation and compounding geopolitical pressures in the Middle East.

Industry experts remain highly skeptical that foreign investors will step in to salvage the bankrupt and structurally unstable energy grid. While proposals from Qatar regarding power plant construction offer a theoretical lifeline, observers emphasize that without comprehensive structural overhauls, Lebanon's persistent electricity crisis will inevitably continue.

Source: www.aljazeera.com