Libya Leverages Turkish Partnership to Support 4 GW Renewables Goal
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Libya is undergoing a transformational shift in its energy strategy as it moves to meet surging domestic demand and reduce dependence on hydrocarbons. A series of strategic partnerships – particularly with Turkish firms – are positioning the country to become a regional leader in solar and wind power.
Renewable Targets and Project Pipeline
Libya has committed to generating 4 GW of renewable energy by 2035, equivalent to 20% of its energy mix. Central to this target is the 500 MW Sadada solar project, which is entering its final development phase. Led by energy major TotalEnergies in collaboration with the General Electric Company of Libya and the Renewable Energy Authority of Libya, construction is expected to commence in 2025.
While Libya remains one of Africa’s top oil producers, the government is accelerating efforts to diversify its energy portfolio. According to the International Energy Agency, renewables accounted for just 0.01% of its final energy consumption in 2021. Officials now aim to reverse that trend by leveraging abundant solar irradiance and untapped wind potential while addressing energy shortfalls.
Strategic Role of Turkish Expertise
As Libya builds out its renewable capacity, Turkey has emerged as a key strategic partner, offering both investment and technical expertise. According to Osama El Durrat, Advisor to the Prime Minister for Electricity and Renewable Energy Affairs, Libya is finalizing a MoU with Turkish companies to formalize cooperation on renewable technologies. Discussions have included knowledge transfer and the co-development of infrastructure, including gas-powered turbines, solar panels and wind turbines.
Libya has already designated a renewable energy investment zone in eastern Tripoli, where Turkish firms are expected to play a major role. The country’s strong presence includes involvement in ongoing projects such as the South Tripoli station as well as the Turkish company Anka Teknik-led 670 MW West Tripoli emergency power project and 640 MW Ubari gas-fired station.
Regional Trade and Economic Sovereignty
In parallel with domestic expansion, Libya is exploring opportunities for regional energy trade. Ongoing discussions with Greece, Malta and Turkey envision undersea cable projects that could enable Libya to export surplus renewable energy to Europe. Participation in the Mediterranean Transmission System Operators platform further underscores Libya’s ambition to integrate with regional power grids, with Turkey playing a critical intermediary role.
As such, a stable diversified energy supply in Libya has the opportunity to boost industrial productivity, lower electricity costs and reduce dependency on fossil fuel subsidies. By aligning with Turkish firms, Libya also benefits from capacity building programs, training local engineers and technicians in renewable systems and grid management. These efforts not only strengthen Libya’s energy sovereignty but position the country as a clean energy hub in the southern Mediterranean.
Libya’s push toward renewable energy is expected to take center stage at the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026, set for January 24-26 in Tripoli. The event will bring together key stakeholders to evaluate the country’s clean energy goals, flagship solar projects and plans for regional power trade.
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