Lebanon has officially launched rehabilitation works at the El Bared Hydroelectric Plant, marking a significant milestone in strengthening national energy security and accelerating the country’s transition toward renewable energy. 

Funded by the German Cooperation through KfW Development Bank and technically supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the project is implemented for the benefit of the Ministry of Energy and Water and Electricité du Liban (EDL). It aims to restore and modernize critical hydropower infrastructure while increasing the contribution of renewable energy to Lebanon’s national electricity system. 

The launch of the rehabilitation works was announced by H.E. Joe Saddi, Minister of Energy and Water in a press conference on Jan 20th, 2026. 

The project covers the rehabilitation of El Bared 1 (13.5 MW) and El Bared 2 (3.7 MW) hydropower plants. Once completed, the upgraded facilities are expected to increase total energy output by 15 per cent, providing more reliable electricity to approximately 27,000 residents. The rehabilitation will also reduce an estimated 31,000 tons of CO₂ emissions annually, strengthen the share of renewable energy in Lebanon’s national energy mix, and enhance the resilience of the electricity system amid ongoing energy challenges. 

Beyond restoring existing infrastructure, the project includes a feasibility assessment for integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) and pumped hydro storage systems, with the objective of transforming the El Bared site into a multi-source renewable energy hub. 

Background 

The project will be implemented over a total period of 52 months, comprising a 16-month design phase, an 8-month procurement phase, and a 28-month construction and implementation phase. 

To ensure long-term sustainability, the project places strong emphasis on capacity development. Technical experts will deliver 13 training workshops for 146 participants, alongside specialized on-the-job training for 26 EDL staff members, equipping local teams with the skills needed to operate, manage, and maintain the El Bared facilities independently and sustainably.