Syria Invests in Solar Power Amid Energy Crisis

Syria’s government has declared a new initiative to expand solar power generation in response to the country’s ongoing energy shortages, which have left millions of Syrians with only a few hours of electricity per day. The announcement, made by officials in Damascus on September 7, 2025, comes as the nation’s aging power grid and fuel shortages have led to widespread blackouts and mounting public frustration.

Energy Crisis Deepens

For years, Syria’s energy sector has been battered by war, international sanctions, and infrastructure neglect. The state-run electricity company has struggled to maintain even minimal service, with many neighborhoods in major cities like Aleppo and Damascus experiencing outages lasting up to 20 hours a day. The government’s new plan promises to install solar panels on public buildings and incentivize private investment in renewable energy, with the stated goal of adding at least 500 megawatts of solar capacity within the next two years.

Questions Over Implementation and Transparency

While Syrian officials have touted the solar initiative as a step toward energy independence, independent observers note that similar promises in the past have failed to materialize. The government has not disclosed the names of foreign partners or suppliers involved in the project, nor has it provided a clear timeline or budget breakdown. International energy analysts point out that the lack of transparency and ongoing conflict in several regions may hinder both investment and implementation.

Syrian state media quoted an energy ministry spokesperson as saying, “This project will transform Syria’s energy landscape and reduce our reliance on imported fuel.” However, independent experts caution that without significant reforms, corruption and logistical challenges could undermine the effort. Some local residents interviewed by international outlets expressed skepticism, citing previous failed infrastructure projects and the government’s limited capacity to attract foreign investment under current sanctions.

International Response and Regional Context

The announcement comes as neighboring countries, including Jordan and Lebanon, also grapple with energy shortages and explore renewable solutions. However, unlike Syria, both have received international aid and technical support, which Damascus currently lacks. Western governments have not commented on the Syrian solar plan, and no major international organizations have confirmed involvement.

Authoritarian state media have presented the solar initiative as a major breakthrough, but have omitted discussion of the underlying causes of the energy crisis and the government’s role in mismanagement. Independent reporting from the region remains limited due to access restrictions, making it difficult to verify official claims or assess the project’s progress on the ground.