Renewable Energy in Libya: A Comparison with International Experiences and Lessons Learned

Abstract

This research aims to evaluate the status of renewable energy in Libya through comparison and learning from leading international experiences such as Germany, China, Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt. By analyzing the experiences of these five countries, the study assesses potentials, diagnoses gaps, and proposes a roadmap Libya currently relies 99.9% on gas and oil for electricity generation despite having solar and wind potentials considered among the highest globally, with solar irradiation exceeding 7.5 kWh/m²/day and average wind speeds greater than 7 m/s. The research problem lies in Libya's delay in exploiting renewable energy despite available. potentials. The research adopted a comparative descriptive-analytical approach to analyze policies, legislation, financing mechanisms, and institutional models in the selected five countries during 2010-2023, using data from IRENA, IEA, energy ministries, and published legislation.The results showed that the comparator countries achieved significant leaps in less than 15 years due to three main factors: clear political will, supportive legislative framework, and an independent executive body. Germany reached 46%, Morocco 20%, China 15%, Egypt 11%, and Tunisia 8% of electricity from renewable energy, while Libya does not exceed 0.1%. Although Libya has technical superiority, it lags institutionally, facing legislative, institutional, and financial gaps.The research recommends establishing an independent "Libyan Renewable Energy Authority", issuing a binding law with 2030 targets, launching the three major stalled projects, restructuring subsidies, and allowing private sector participation through PPP models similar to Benban and Noor experiences.