Libya aims to reduce its dependence on hydrocarbons and unlock its renewable energy potential by leveraging Türkiye’s experience and investment, according to Libya's Renewable Energy Authority.
Electricity generation in Libya is still largely dependent on oil- and natural gas-fired power plants, while long-standing subsidies on hydrocarbon products have limited the development of renewable energy despite the country’s strong solar and wind potential.
"Libya's renewable energy situation is improving day by day and offering new opportunities for international companies," Abdusselam el-Ensari, head of Libya's Renewable Energy Authority, told Anadolu.
The authority worked closely with the Libyan Government of National Unity on a renewable energy legislation, which is currently being reviewed by the relevant committee in the Libyan House of Representatives.
"The renewable energy law is a comprehensive law regulating renewable energy. It will regulate the relationship between the private sector and institutions and facilitate business," he said.
"Turkish companies will play a significant role in capacity building, prioritization, and pilot projects in the renewable energy sector in Libya," he said and added, "They will be involved in the construction and investment processes."
He expressed belief that Türkiye's private sector in renewable energy is well-positioned to form partnerships with Libyan institutions and companies and successfully deliver joint projects, emphasizing that Libya remains keen to welcome Turkish firms.
- Libya plans to increase its renewable energy share to 20% by 2035
Asil Yunus Ertime, CEO of Libya Renewable Energy Company, said that Libya has vast land areas, significant solar energy potential, and a strong grid.
Ertime noted that Libya aims to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix to 20% by 2035 through new projects.
"Through cooperation between Libya and Türkiye, we will succeed in preparing concrete projects that will benefit both countries. Türkiye has taken the lead in the energy sector in Libya and played an important role," he added.
Stating he had visited Türkiye in December, Ertime said, "We saw how investments in the Turkish private sector serve the country, how they ensure electricity distribution and coordination with the government, and their production facilities."
He stated that they will participate in renewable energy fairs to be held in Türkiye in April.
"I believe there will also be a major renewable energy Expo in Türkiye in April. We will participate and see how it can be managed by further cooperating with the Turkish side at this fair." he concluded.
Reporting by Muhammed Semiz in Tripoli
Writing by Basak Erkalan
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr
