Lebanon signs gas agreement with Egypt to boost power supply

Lebanon and Egypt have signed an agreement to transfer 650 million cubic metres of gas per year from Egypt to Lebanon via Syria.

The deal was signed on Tuesday at a ceremony at the Lebanese energy ministry in Beirut.

It would see gas shipped via pipeline to Lebanon's northern Deir Ammar power plant, where it could add some 450 megawatts, equivalent to around four extra hours of power per day to the grid.

Lebanon's state-run power company produces just a couple hours of power per day, forcing many to pay for expensive private generator subscriptions.

READ MORE: US envoy sees possible progress in Lebanon-Israel border talks

Adding up to 700 MW

The deal is part of a US-backed effort to address Lebanon's crippling blackouts by transmitting electricity from Jordan and natural gas from Egypt, both via Syria.

The plans, which together would add up to 700 MW to Lebanon's grid, was first floated in the summer of 2021 but have faced delays.

The World Bank had agreed to provide financing if Lebanon enacts long-awaited reforms to its power sector to reduce waste and boost tariff collection.

Lebanon's cabinet passed a broad electricity reform plan in March but has yet to implement key components.

READ MORE: Egypt comes to Lebanon's rescue with its spare natural gas