In Beirut, Lebanese authorities are taking a tougher stance against private generator owners who continue to defy government regulations aimed at organizing the sector. Following the expiration last Saturday of a 45-day deadline granted to operators to comply, a campaign was launched to crack down on the most blatant violations.
The operation was carried out jointly by State Security and the Ministry of Economy. Eight notices for verbal hearings were issued across neighborhoods, including Achrafieh, Sabra, Moussaytbeh, and Mar Elias. Targeted operators are accused of charging unlawful tariffs and failing to install individual meters, as the law requires.
These targeted inspections mark a shift in the authorities’ approach, signaling an intent to end abusive practices that have become widespread. According to Economy Minister Amer Bisat, the generators inspected at the start of the campaign were chosen due to their size and repeated record of violations. Cases have been referred to the Financial Prosecutor’s Office, which now has 15 days to act.
A Sector Under Scrutiny
In mid-August, the government granted operators 45 days to comply with new regulations. It required them to install meters, follow tariffs set by the Ministry of Energy, and add filters to better monitor consumption.
Minister Bisat ruled out any leniency for those claiming ignorance of the regulations and dismissed allegations of political interference, stressing that the campaign will extend nationwide with support from security forces and surveillance bodies.
State Security clarified that violators have 15 days to comply with the regulations before facing judicial action, which could include the seizure of their generators.
According to the Ministry of Economy, one-third of all generators recorded earlier this year operate outside regulations. Of an estimated 7,000 generators nationwide, many still escape oversight and impose what consumers deem excessive fees, a 2025 ministry report revealed.
Authorities say the goal is to move away from a chaotic system and establish a more transparent framework. Their stated aim: a regulated but fair relationship that tolerates no abuse between the state and private operators.
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