Amid economic instability and political uncertainty, Lebanon’s industrial sector is turning towards renewable energy as a beacon of hope. In an interview conducted during the 2nd Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) of the MED-GEM Network, held at the headquarters of Hydrogen Europe in Brussels on June 11, 2024, Ibrahim Mallah, Head of the Energy and Sustainable Development Committee at the Association of Lebanese Industrialists (ALI), discusses the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Lebanon’s industrialists within the framework of the EU-supported MED-GEM program.

Lebanon’s industrial sector has long been a cornerstone of the national economy, yet it now finds itself grappling with a convergence of crises. The economic downturn, compounded by political deadlock and regional conflicts, has left many industries in a precarious state.

The MED-GEM program, supported by the European Commission, offers more than just a glimmer of hope. It provides critical technical support that can help shape strategic thinking and bolster initiatives within Lebanon’s industrial sector. This initiative aims to foster collaboration across the Mediterranean region on renewable energy projects, with a particular focus on solar energy and hydrogen. Mallah underscores the importance of this support, stating, “We are hoping the European Commission can provide the support we need to face the problems in our country, especially through projects related to renewable energy and hydrogen.”

Lebanon’s industries, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are in dire need of this support. “More than 80% of our industries are SMEs that cannot finance renewable energy projects on their own. Our role at the Association is to help these enterprises find the necessary support and financing,” Mallah notes.

The transition to renewable energy, supported by international cooperation through programs like MED-GEM, is a critical component of this effort. As Mallah poignantly concludes, “We have to thank the European Commission and the MED-GEM network for their support. We hope to continue this cooperation in the coming years as we work towards a more sustainable and resilient industrial sector.”