Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus and Lebanon have jointly asked the World Bank to prepare a preliminary feasibility study for a proposed electricity interconnection between the two countries.
The project could gain wider strategic importance if Cyprus completes its planned electricity link with the rest of Europe, Lebanese Energy Minister Joseph Al Saddi said.
Two-phase assessment
Speaking to Alithia on Sunday, Al Saddi said the World Bank will finance and conduct the study in two phases.
The first phase, expected to last about six months, will assess the project’s economic viability, including electricity supply and demand.
If the initial assessment is positive, a second and more detailed technical and economic study will examine the conditions needed to implement the project.
Potential European connection
Al Saddi said an electricity connection with Cyprus could eventually provide Lebanon with access to the European energy network if Cyprus is linked to the rest of Europe.
He said the project could extend beyond addressing Lebanon’s domestic electricity shortages and take on a broader strategic role for the Levant.
Lebanon’s electricity needs
Lebanon’s immediate priority is improving electricity supply, Al Saddi said, as the country continues to experience significant power shortages.
He said the direct benefit of the proposed interconnection would be the ability to provide more electricity to the Lebanese population.
