Mohamad Al Tawil

Towards a Sustainable Energy Sector in Lebanon

Lebanon’s energy sector has long faced challenges such as chronic supply shortages, aging infrastructure, and heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. These issues have led to prolonged blackouts, high energy debt, and severe pollution. The 2019 economic crisis exacerbated these problems, making it even harder to secure resources to meet growing energy demands. In response, financially capable households installed isolated solar systems, deepening energy inequality by limiting reliable electricity access to those who can afford the upfront costs. Prosumerism emerges as an innovative solution to potentially connect these isolated systems and create a more inclusive, efficient energy landscape.

This study aims to identify the optimal prosumer model and outline a pathway for its implementation. It uses a mixed-methods approach, combining a comprehensive literature review with surveys and interviews with energy specialists in Lebanon. Three globally recognized prosumer business models are evaluated using the Business Model Canvas framework: the peer-to-peer model, the prosumer-to-grid model, and the organized prosumer groups model. Each is assessed for feasibility, viability, and desirability in the Lebanese energy context. Existing literature lacks studies that compare all three prosumer models together, particularly in the context of Lebanon's unique energy landscape. This research addresses this gap by providing a comprehensive assessment of these models and their implementation challenges.

The findings reveal that the P2G model is the most promising solution for Lebanon’s energy landscape. This model allows prosumers to feed excess energy back into the grid, helping to mitigate supply shortages, stabilize the grid, reduce reliance on corrupt entities, lower pollution, and promote renewable energy adoption through financial incentives. However, the study identifies four major barriers to implementing this model and offers recommendations to overcome them. Ultimately, this research provides a roadmap for transitioning toward a more sustainable and resilient energy future for Lebanon.