Lebanon's Minister of Energy and Water, Joe Saddi, announced on Tuesday a major reform of the country's groundwater drilling licensing system, as part of an effort to improve water resource management.
The reform is being developed in collaboration with experts from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and the American University of Beirut (AUB). A new cooperation agreement between the Ministry of Energy and AUB is in the works to support the initiative.
As part of the reform, the Ministry plans to launch an accreditation process for companies specializing in topographic and geological studies. These companies will assess the impact of drilling on both surface and groundwater resources and prepare detailed technical reports required for licensing. Companies will be selected based on a technical specifications document currently under development, in accordance with legal procedures.
While the new system is being set up, the Ministry of Energy and Water will continue to review drilling permit applications under the current framework to avoid delays for citizens during the transition.
Electricity Sector Authority Set to Launch After 23 Years
In related news, Minister Saddi announced the completion of all necessary procedures to establish the Electricity Sector Regulation Authority, marking a significant milestone after a delay of 23 years. The authority will play a pivotal role in structuring the electricity sector, overseeing licensing, tariffs and competition, as well as ensuring consumer protection.
In an interview with Asharq al-Awsat, Minister Saddi confirmed that the selection criteria for the authority’s leadership have been finalized and submitted to the Ministry of Administrative Development. An official call for applications will be issued shortly after Easter.
The establishment of the authority is seen as a crucial step towards the development of renewable energy in Lebanon, aligning with international donor requirements and serving as a key element in the country’s much-needed structural reforms.
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