The need and importance of the renewable energy as perceived by Lebanon’s experts (the case of electricity)

Abstract

Purpose: Exploring the perception of the Lebanese experts concerning the need and importance of the renewable energy in Lebanon, with a focus on the Lebanese electricity sector. It aims at assessing the extent to which renewable energy such as wind, solar and hydro power is needed in Lebanon and its impact on alleviating the existing electricity crisis in the country. Design/methodology/approach: This study is an exploratory research. The secondary research was performed and the results are presented in two sections under the literature review chapter, describing several opinions and arguments concerning the social responsibility and the sustainability towards a green economy in the world and specifically in Lebanon. The primary research was performed using several semi-structured interviews conducted with Lebanese experts concerning the Lebanese electricity sector in addition to the feasibility of renewable energy implementation in Lebanon. Findings: The main findings are that the renewable energy implementation has started slowly in Lebanon in addition to current and planned rehabilitation and maintenance for the Lebanese electricity sector. Furthermore, renewables are much needed in Lebanon since they constitute the permanent solution to the electricity crisis in the country. Research limitations/implications: The sample of the semi-structured interviews is small and as a result the conclusions might be limited. As this is an exploratory research, it is not the outset to make conclusions based on statistical facts but it is the idea to make tentative conclusions that can be used to establish if any further research would be feasible. Practical implications: The study focuses on the awareness, understanding and feasibility of the renewable energy sources taking into consideration the sustainability and the Lebanese social responsibility. Originality/value: The conducted semi-structured interviews reflecting the current status of Lebanon regarding the progress and implementation of the renewable energy sources. Also, a new concept proposal for the currently considered far-fetched Solar Power Satellite.