Electricité du Liban (EDL) explained on Friday the reasons behind the increased power-rationing amid ongoing daily protests in the Beqaa. Citizens in this area are expressing their discontent with what they consider to be an overly harsh rationing schedule.
EDL explained that since the shutdown of the hydropower plants operated by the National Litani River Authority (ONL) on March 17, electricity supply is now limited to its thermal power plants only. The shutdown is due to the ongoing drought which led to a drop in the water level of the Qaraoun Lake.
According to the statement, EDL "strives to maintain, as much as possible, the continuity of energy supply to meet the needs of consumers. It applies the law, which guarantees equality in the distribution of electricity among all Lebanese regions."
The provider also revealed that "employees of the Litani River Authority have, for many years, not adhered to the rationing program applied in other Lebanese regions. They were providing irregular electricity supply to certain areas, violating the rules of equitable distribution of electricity."
"This behavior constitutes a violation of the law, particularly the principle of equality in energy provision between areas served by the Litani River Authority’s transformation stations and those supplied by EDL. It also contradicts the 1964 law, which grants EDL exclusive rights over electricity distribution across all of Lebanon," the statement continued.
EDL warned that "any imbalance in electricity distribution by the ONL will lead to outages in other regions, including Beirut." It also urged all subscribers in the Litani stations' areas to settle their outstanding bills and assured that it would continue to supply energy to vital services, such as hospitals and water facilities.
A number of protests were organized these last few days in the town of Mashghara. Residents once again blocked the village’s road on Friday to protest against the electricity cuts. Similar protests occurred on Thursday evening in Maydoun, Ain el-Tineh and Sohmor, where roads were also blocked.
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