Renewable Energy Focus of Syria’s Second Conference
Positioning renewable energy as a cornerstone of its economic revival, Syria hosted its Second Electricity Investment Conference on June 19-20, 2024. The event, held at Damascus University and titled “Investing in Renewable Energy and Electricity: The Engine of Sustainable Development in Syria,” gathered government ministers, international delegates, and private sector stakeholders to chart a course for the nation’s energy future.
Strategic Goals and Legislative Support for Renewable Energy Focus of Syria’s Second Conference
Minister of Electricity Ghassan Al-Zamel officially designated 2024 as the year of renewable energy investment, signaling a decisive national shift. He announced ambitious plans for new projects, including over 200 megawatts from wind power and approximately 600 megawatts from solar initiatives. This strategic push is underpinned by a modernized legislative framework designed to attract capital and streamline development in the recovering nation.
Two key pieces of legislation, Law No. 23 and Law No. 32, are central to this effort. Law 23 authorizes the Ministry of Electricity to enter into Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with private energy producers at government-approved rates. Law 32 further simplifies the investment process, encouraging public-private partnerships and guaranteeing that the state will purchase any surplus electricity generated, thereby providing a secure market for investors exploring these clean energy opportunities.
Concrete Projects and Industrial Vision for Renewable Energy Focus of Syria’s Second Conference
The conference translated high-level strategy into tangible commitments. Prime Minister Hussein Arnous confirmed at the event’s conclusion that several memoranda of understanding were signed, including for a 100 MW solar project, a 50 MW wind farm, and a substantial 300 MW solar station in the Damascus countryside. Arnous emphasized that transitioning to renewables is a strategic necessity, particularly amid challenges related to the country’s oil resources.
Beyond generation, Syria aims to build a domestic supply chain for the renewable sector. Minister of Industry Abdelkader Joukhadar highlighted the government’s focus on directing investment toward manufacturing solar power components and their essential semiconductor parts. This vision was showcased at an accompanying exhibition where public and private firms displayed their technologies, and discussions ranged from establishing an electric vehicle factory to adopting global best practices in energy policy.
Regional Cooperation and Future Outlook on Renewable Energy Focus of Syria’s Second Conference
The conference also underscored Syria’s desire to re-engage with regional partners. Mohammed Nawaf Al-Ta‘ani, Secretary-General of the Arab Renewable Energy Authority, proposed establishing Damascus as the capital of renewable energy by 2035, calling for enhanced collaboration on research and development. The presence of international participants, including Oman’s embassy, further highlighted the growing interest in Syria’s energy sector.
By leveraging new laws, fostering local manufacturing, and securing investment for large-scale projects, Syria is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable energy grid. Governor of Damascus, Mohammed Tariq Kreishati, expressed confidence that the conference’s outcomes would effectively mobilize local resources and expertise to drive significant growth and development.
Sources
- 2nd Conference for Investment in Electricity Sector and Renewable …
- Renewable Energy – SAEA
- Syria Launches Second Investment Conference To Boost …
- PM Arnous Underscores the Importance of Advancing Renewable …
- Syria: Oman at renewable energy investment conference | fm.gov.om
- Syria’s Energy Challenge: Security and Reconstruction
- Syria Launches Second Investment Conference To Boost … – ISGF
- Syria to host 2024 energy conference as Arab normalisation gains …
- Syria: Assessing Foreign Involvement in the Electrical Grid
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