Government Approves Minister’s 'Electricity-Reform Plan'
An electricity plan proposed by Lebanon's Energy Minister Cesar Abi Khalil was approved by the government on Tuesday where its articles will be studied and approved individually by the cabinet.
In a session devoted to study the electricity-reform plan, the cabinet convened at the Presidential Palace in Baabda and was chaired by President Michel Aoun in the presence of Prime Minister Saad Hariri and the ministers.
After the session, Information Minister Melhem Riachi said: “A proposal put forward by the Energy Minister has been approved. It is part of an electricity plan that should have been completed back in 2010.
“A lot of comments were made about the plan which the Energy Minister took it into consideration, especially with regard to the solicitation of bids and preparation of tenders.”
“The details of the plan and the preparations will be explained during a press conference to be held soon by Abi Khalil,” added Riachi.
Although the plan was approved, but each of its articles will be studied and approved consecutively by the cabinet.
According to reports, Abi Khalil's “Power Saving Plan” was proposed with the aim of improving electricity production.
Before the cabinet meeting began, State Minister for Parliament Affairs Ali Qanso voiced reservations as for an earlier call by Lebanese Forces chief Samir Geagea to privatize the sector.
“We are not reassured about privatization. We are afraid of turning the commodity into a sectarian commodity,” he said.
Youth and Sports Minister Mohammad Fneish said: “We have some remarks about the electricity plan which will be brought up during the meeting.”
For his part, Minister of State for Planning Affairs Michel Pharaon said the plan will be approved “but there are some remarks to be taken into consideration.”
Abi Khalil's plan suggests leasing three power generating Turkish vessels, instead of two already producing Lebanon's electricity, to supply the country with needed power before the summer season begins.
Lebanon is plagued with frequent power cuts because of outdated and damaged infrastructure.
Local generator companies have filled the gap by providing power when state electricity cuts off -- but they often charge exorbitant prices.
The poor condition of the state's power infrastructure has been a major source of public frustration, and featured prominently in recent protests that saw thousands gather in central Beirut.
Source: Naharnet
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