Beirut: The Lebanese Business Leaders Association (RDCL) conducted an exclusive interactive session for its members, titled "The Seven-Paths Reform Plan for the Energy Sector: Private Sector Contributions and Emerging Business Opportunities," at the InterContinental Phoenicia Hotel. This event was part of the "Beirut Energy Forum 2026," featuring key participants including the Minister of Energy and Water, H.E. Mr. Joe Saddi; the Senior Energy Specialist at the World Bank, Dr. Mohamed Zakaria Kamh; the Board Member of the Investment Development Authority of Lebanon (IDAL), Mr. Abbas Ramadan; and the Energy Finance Specialist, Ms. Carol Ayat Boukather. The session was moderated by RDCL Board Member Ms. Dalia Jubaili alongside Mr. Pierre El Khoury, Secretary of the Lebanon Member Committee of the World Energy Council.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, RDCL President Ms. Joumana Saddi Chaya emphasized the significance of electricity as a fundamental pillar of economic growth, rather than merely a budgetary line item. She announced the establishment of a dedicated energy committee within the association, which aims to transform plans into actionable projects and business opportunities through public-private partnerships.
Ms. Dalia Jubaili highlighted RDCL's longstanding role in advocating for the private sector's interests, supporting reforms that foster investment, growth, and job creation. The interactive session aimed to unify government, investors, and the private sector in translating energy plans into concrete projects.
Minister of Energy and Water, H.E. Mr. Joe Saddi, underscored the pivotal role of the private sector in resolving energy challenges, while the Ministry focuses on setting frameworks and directions. He outlined the plan's seven paths, including enhancing conventional generation capacity, boosting renewable energy, transitioning to natural gas, regional electrical interconnection, developing transmission lines, addressing non-technical losses, reorganizing distribution, and implementing critical reforms, such as Law 462 and activating the energy regulatory authority. He also emphasized the need for a clear regulatory framework for investors and highlighted the importance of diversifying supply sources.
Dr. Mohamed Zakaria Kamh from the World Bank stressed the need for political will to achieve reform objectives and praised the resilience of the Lebanese private sector. He advocated for a single-window system for licenses and permits and maximizing existing renewable energy capacities. The World Bank offers financing, knowledge, and best practices, yet implementation depends on political commitment.
Energy Finance Specialist Ms. Carol Ayat Boukather emphasized that reducing electricity costs is vital for economic recovery and the development of competitive new industries. She advocated for streamlined licensing for small-scale projects and highlighted the necessity of public-private partnerships to achieve cost-effective plans. She also called for banking and financial reforms and international guarantees to address sovereign risk.
Mr. Abbas Ramadan of IDAL explained that investor confidence hinges on stability, credible regulators, and predictable policies. He noted that renewable energy projects are supported by the Authority through incentives and tax exemptions, stressing the need for decisive action to bridge the gap between interest and implementation.
Mr. Pierre El Khoury stated that the event's primary goal was to develop integrated technical solutions for political consideration, ensuring that the private sector's demands reach the Council of Ministers and relevant administrations.
In conclusion, participants agreed on the clarity of the technical roadmap and the availability of immediate opportunities. However, they acknowledged that large-scale investment is hindered by sovereign risk, slow approval processes, and legislative and regulatory delays. They emphasized the urgency of activating the regulatory authority and updating legislation to restructure the sector, with the ultimate goal of achieving reliable, affordable electricity that supports growth and restores confidence. The Association pledged to continue collaborating with stakeholders to transform commitments into completed projects.