SDG 7 in Lebanon: Affordable and Clean Energy
Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. Lebanon faces significant challenges in achieving SDG 7, as its energy sector struggles with inefficiency, frequent electricity shortages, reliance on expensive and polluting fossil fuels, and underdeveloped renewable energy resources. The Lebanese government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Water, is working to address these issues through energy sector reforms, renewable energy projects, and energy efficiency initiatives.
Lebanon’s Approach to SDG 7: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Electricity Crisis and Energy Infrastructure:
Lebanon has long experienced a severe electricity crisis. The country's aging and inefficient electricity grid, coupled with inadequate power generation, results in daily blackouts that last for several hours, forcing citizens and businesses to rely on costly private generators. The Electricité du Liban (EDL), Lebanon’s state-owned electricity company, faces challenges in meeting the growing demand for electricity due to its outdated infrastructure and lack of investment.
The Lebanese government has recognized the need to reform the energy sector to improve reliability and efficiency. The Ministry of Energy and Water (MoEW) has been working on a comprehensive energy strategy aimed at addressing these issues, including plans for upgrading the national electricity grid, increasing power generation capacity, and reducing energy waste. However, progress has been slow due to political instability and financial constraints.
Promoting Renewable Energy:
Lebanon is heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels for electricity generation, making it vulnerable to fluctuating fuel prices and environmental degradation. To mitigate this, the government has set goals to diversify its energy sources and promote the use of renewable energy. The National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NREAP) aims to achieve 30% of Lebanon’s electricity generation from renewable energy sources by 2030.
Several renewable energy projects have been initiated, including the installation of solar photovoltaic systems and wind farms. In 2020, Lebanon inaugurated its first wind farm in Akkar, a northern region of the country, marking a significant step towards the transition to renewable energy. The government is also encouraging the use of solar energy in rural areas and households to reduce dependence on private generators.
Energy Efficiency Programs:
The Ministry of Energy and Water has launched several initiatives aimed at improving energy efficiency across various sectors. The Lebanese Center for Energy Conservation (LCEC), a governmental agency affiliated with MoEW, plays a key role in promoting energy efficiency measures, including energy audits, retrofitting of public buildings, and introducing energy-efficient appliances. The LCEC also encourages the adoption of energy-efficient technologies in industries, transportation, and households.
In recent years, the government has introduced net-metering regulations that allow individuals and businesses to generate their own electricity through renewable sources (such as solar panels) and feed excess energy back into the national grid, improving energy efficiency and reducing electricity bills. Additionally, energy-saving campaigns are conducted to raise awareness about the importance of energy conservation among citizens.
International Support and Partnerships:
Lebanon has received significant international support for its energy sector reforms and renewable energy projects. The European Union (EU), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the World Bank are key partners in financing and supporting renewable energy initiatives, including wind farms, solar energy projects, and energy efficiency programs. These international partnerships are crucial for providing the technical expertise and financial resources needed to achieve SDG 7 in Lebanon.
Challenges and Future Plans:
Despite the progress made, Lebanon continues to face major challenges in achieving SDG 7. The economic crisis, political instability, and lack of investment in the energy sector have hindered large-scale renewable energy projects and slowed down energy reforms. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 Beirut port explosion further strained the country’s resources, delaying many energy projects.
Moving forward, Lebanon’s government aims to prioritize energy reforms, promote private sector involvement, and expand renewable energy initiatives. The adoption of renewable energy and energy efficiency measures will be key in addressing the energy crisis, reducing pollution, and ensuring a sustainable energy future for Lebanon.
Beirut Arab University and SDG 7: Advancing Sustainable Energy
Beirut Arab University (BAU) is actively contributing to SDG 7 through its academic programs, research initiatives, and campus sustainability efforts. The university is committed to promoting clean energy and energy efficiency, both within its own operations and in the broader Lebanese context.
Research and Innovation in Renewable Energy:
BAU’s Faculty of Engineering and Research Center for Renewable Energy are at the forefront of research and innovation in renewable energy technologies. The university’s researchers work on developing solar energy solutions, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable energy technologies that can be applied in Lebanon and the wider region.
BAU conducts research on solar photovoltaic systems, energy storage technologies, and the integration of renewable energy into existing power grids. This research contributes to the development of sustainable energy solutions that can help mitigate Lebanon’s energy crisis and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The university also collaborates with local and international organizations on renewable energy projects, supporting Lebanon’s transition to clean energy.
Educational Programs on Energy Sustainability:
BAU offers specialized academic programs focused on energy sustainability and environmental engineering. Students are trained in energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy systems, and sustainable resource management, preparing them to contribute to Lebanon’s energy sector transformation.
Through coursework and hands-on projects, students learn about the importance of clean energy, energy conservation, and the environmental impacts of different energy sources. BAU’s commitment to energy education helps build a new generation of engineers and professionals equipped to address Lebanon’s energy challenges and promote sustainable energy practices.
Sustainable Campus Initiatives:
BAU is working to make its campus more energy-efficient and sustainable. The university has implemented energy-saving measures, such as installing solar panels on campus buildings, retrofitting lighting systems with energy-efficient LEDs, and using motion sensors to reduce electricity consumption.
In addition to energy conservation, BAU promotes the use of renewable energy on campus. The university’s solar panel installations generate clean electricity for campus operations, reducing reliance on the national grid and contributing to Lebanon’s renewable energy goals. BAU’s campus sustainability efforts demonstrate the university’s commitment to SDG 7 and set an example for other institutions in Lebanon.
Community Engagement and Energy Awareness:
BAU engages with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of energy conservation and the benefits of renewable energy. The university organizes workshops, seminars, and public awareness campaigns on energy efficiency, solar energy, and sustainable energy practices. These initiatives aim to educate the public and encourage individuals, businesses, and local governments to adopt clean energy solutions.
BAU’s community engagement programs also involve students in energy-related projects, such as installing solar panels in underserved areas or conducting energy audits for public buildings. By working with local communities, BAU helps promote sustainable energy practices and supports Lebanon’s efforts to achieve SDG 7.
Partnerships for Sustainable Energy:
BAU collaborates with national and international organizations to advance clean energy research and projects. The university partners with organizations such as the Lebanese Center for Energy Conservation (LCEC), the UNDP, and international universities to develop and implement renewable energy initiatives in Lebanon.
These partnerships provide BAU with access to global expertise, funding, and technical resources, enabling the university to contribute more effectively to Lebanon’s energy transition. Through its collaborations, BAU plays a key role in supporting national efforts to achieve SDG 7 and promoting sustainable energy solutions in Lebanon.
Lebanon faces significant challenges in achieving SDG 7 due to its ongoing electricity crisis, reliance on fossil fuels, and outdated infrastructure. The government and the Ministry of Energy and Water are working to address these issues through energy sector reforms, the promotion of renewable energy, and energy efficiency programs, with support from international partners.
Beirut Arab University is actively contributing to SDG 7 through research, education, and sustainability initiatives. BAU’s efforts in renewable energy research, energy efficiency education, and community engagement are helping to advance clean energy solutions in Lebanon and support the country’s transition to a more sustainable energy future.
Launch of the Renewable Energy Engineering (RNEE) Program
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=766896085473113&set=a.668151805347542
From Our Energy...To Our Region
https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/From-Our-Energy-To-Our-Region
Beirut Arab University Lights up Its Surrounding Area
Within the framework of "Light Your Street" initiative, Beirut Arab University organized a street lighting ceremony surrounding its Beirut campus, in cooperation with Rebirth Beirut and Medco, under the slogan "From Our Energy...To Our Region" ((من طاقتنا...لمنطقتنا, where the streets were lit on an area of 18,500 square meters and 1,040 linear meters.
The ceremony was attended by the Governor of Beirut, Judge Marwan Abboud, the Founder and President of the Rebirth Beirut Association, Gabi Fernaini, the Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Ammar Houri, the University’s President, Prof. Amr Galal El-Adawi, the vice presidents, the faculty deans, the university’s Secretary General, Dr. Omar Houri, some military and religious personnel, and the university’s neighbors.
The event started with the Lebanese and university’s anthem, and then the host of the ceremony, Ms. Rima Shehab, spoke: “One of the main goals of higher education institutions is to enhance the spirit of cooperation and nurture students to be role models by serving their community, their surroundings, and their country. This, of course, is part of our university’s strategy and confidence in building generations that are united and useful for a better tomorrow.”
Then the President of the University, Prof. El-Adawi, spoke: "We are pleased that we have created a new partnership with Rebirth Beirut and Medco. It is known that the university's policy is not only to issue certificates and education, but rather it has responsibilities towards society and its surroundings. We have provided many services and projects, whether in Tripoli, Beirut, or Debbieh, and we always use the materialistic and human capabilities of the university to serve the community, similarly to what happened in the August 4th explosion.”
Prof. El-Adawi continued: "Today, in these difficult circumstances, all institutions must unite and cooperate with each other to reduce the burden on the citizens. In addition, the Faculty of Architecture- Design and Built Environment under the supervision of the Dean, Professor Ibtihal Youssef El-Bastawissi, has worked on a project that aims for the redevelopment of Tariq Al-Jadida and Cola Region, to enhance the performance level on the urban spaces within the city, and helps in reducing the pollution levels and contributes to improving the quality of life amongst the citizens, starting with the first phase of improving the traffic circulation in this urban area.
This Project will be in collaboration with the Beirut Municipality.
Then, Founder and President of the Rebirth Beirut Association, Gabi Fernaini, stated: “We are a people who are accustomed to rising from the rubble, just as Beirut has shaken off the dust of destruction, war and explosion, and has regained its radiance thanks to the many initiatives… including the initiative that brings us together today. Today we are in front of one of the most important universities that bear the city's name, Beirut Arab University; this university is a symbol of the region and occupies a large space in the hearts of its residents, students, professors, and staff... and in our hearts as well.”
Fernaini continued: “Today, our association, Rebirth Beirut, is proud to add new streets to its achievements and new hope to confirm that Beirut is the capital of culture and science in this East and will not be drowned in darkness!
Fernaini also indicated that the "Light Your Street" initiative has illuminated 61 streets and 6 main avenues to date, and aims to light 200 streets until the end of 2023.
Then the Governor of Beirut, Judge Marwan Abboud, said: “Beirut, our beloved, despite it going through difficult days, and with God’s will, our will and your will, it will rise again, and will never be extinguished. Beirut faced a lot, Beirut shook, but with perseverance and will, it won’t overturn, but rather we want to light it street after street, and with the university’s support, so that Beirut Arab University becomes a laboratory to develop this region in various living, economic and urban aspects”.
The governor also asked the president of the University for “the Support of the university's engineers to detect and survey the buildings affected by the earthquake due to the lack of sufficient human capabilities to carry out this duty.”
The ceremony concluded with lighting the streets surrounding the university.
TWO MEMORANDUMS OF COOPERATION BETWEEN BEIRUT ARAB UNIVERSITY AND THE NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH – LEBANESE ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION
http://www.cnrs.edu.lb/site/newsdetail.aspx?pageid=2547
The President of Beirut Arab University, Prof. Amr Jalal Al-Adawi, and the Secretary-General of the National Council for Scientific Research, Prof. Moeen Hamza, signed two scientific and academic memorandums of cooperation for the Faculties of Pharmacy and Science for a period of three years aimed at conducting research and studies in disciplines directly related to the work of the Research and Supervisory Authority, as a continuation of the continuous cooperation between the Authority and the University.
The agreement with the Faculty of Pharmacy stipulates that the laboratories of the Lebanese Atomic Energy Commission, represented by its director, Dr. Bilal Nsouli, will receive students from the postgraduate stage to conduct scientific research offered through master's and doctoral theses in the field of pharmaceutical analytical chemistry and drug control, and the Lebanese Atomic Energy Commission is working with the Faculty of Pharmacy to present joint research projects within the program to support scientific research between the two sides to advance scientific research in the field of medicine.
As for the College of Science, the Commission has participated academically in cooperation with the College on the scientific and practical program of the diploma in "Radiation Protection and the Safe Use of Radioactive Sources", Master of Control and Radiation Protection and Master of Medical Physics, in coordination with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
The university also offers one scholarship to those nominated by the Council or the Commission who hold a license in the specialization required to obtain a master's or doctorate, whether in analytical pharmaceutical sciences or in radiation physics, provided that the authority works to involve professors and graduate students in the faculties of pharmacy and science in regional programs and international programs of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
On the sidelines of the agreement, Prof. Hamza presented to the President of the University, Prof. Al-Adawi, his book on "Arabs and the Challenges of Transformation towards Knowledge and Innovation" in both Arabic and English
Building Energy Modelling and Monitoring Workshop at BAU- Tripoli Branch
https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/Event/Building-Energy-Modelling-and-Monitoring-Workshop-at-BAU-Tripoli-Branch
The Faculty of Architectural Engineering at Beirut Arab University- Tripoli branch organised a scientific workshop under the title of “Building Energy Modelling and Monitoring”. The workshop was held from the 29th of November until the 1st of December, 2014.
The workshop which was divided into three main activities each day, included 23 participants from various educational and professional backgrounds, and was oriented to providing the guidance for the appropriate application of Building Performance Simulation (BPS), promote good practice and to offer reference material to support practicing environmental engineers and architects. It dealt with the basics of using simulation tools with an emphasis on application and case studies. The workshop also emphasizes on the importance of simulation validation, in particular building performance monitoring. The workshop included an experiential half-day intricacies and joys of evaluating environmental performance aspects of buildings. Using cutting-edge microprocessor based data loggers and handheld instruments on site.
Sustainability in Engineering
https://www.bau.edu.lb/Science-and-Technology/sustainability-in-engineering
The research areas related to sustainability in power generation, renewable energy production, and applications of renewable energy align with SDG 7. Using recycled materials, health monitoring of structures, and controlling green buildings, contribute to creating sustainable urban environments. All these topics align with SDG9 and SDG 11.
Description of Subtheme:
The main goals of sustainability in engineering are waste and pollution reduction, use of renewable energy sources, and the creation of durable effective systems that benefit present and future generations. The Faculty of Engineering conducts research that has relevance to sustainability Issues in the aim of development a better world. For example, some research is concerned with reuse of recycled materials, soil stabilization, health monitoring of structures, and the application of AI in controlling green buildings. This can have a positive impact on the quality of life that would be beneficial to health and wellbeing. Other research areas are related to sustainability in power generation and energy, production of renewable fuels, and applications of renewable energy. Several research topics currently being tackled by researchers in the faculty of engineering fall under this theme. Examples of these topics are listed here below:
- Designing of structures to conserve energy
- Reusing of recycled materials (Pavement-concrete-glass-plastics-fibers-Ash)
- Studying of Innovative Construction Structural Materials
- Exploring Soil stabilization
- Exploring health monitoring of structures (corrosion, overstressing)
- Using of innovative ductile composite systems
- Exploring seismic assessment, upgrading and renovation of existing deficient buildings
- Designing of smart control of green buildings
- Using sustainable HVAC solutions for buildings with energy efficiency and good indoor environmental quality.
- Using of wind turbines
- Reusing waste glass in reinforced concrete
- Using of organic solid waste resulting from thermal treatment in cement and asphalt
- Determining of corrosion rates using eco-friendly corrosion inhibitors
- Using Corrosion inhibitor additives in drilling mud
- Designing of sustainable chemical processes for the production of renewable fuels
- Applying renewable and sustainable energy
- Using of sustainability in Power Generation and Energy
Researchers at the Faculty of Engineering show their interest in these topics by conducting research and reporting the outcomes in prestigious international and national journals, magazines, symposia, conferences, and meetings.
Prominent Research:
- Alhakim, G., Jaber, L., Baalbaki, O., & Barraj, F. (2023). Utilization of Fan Palm, Date Palm, and Phragmites Australis fibers for improving the mechanical behavior of sandy soil. Geomechanics for Energy and the Environment, 33, 100427.
Nasser Eddine Zeinab, Baaraj Firas, Khatib Jamal, Elkordi Adel, “From waste to resource: utilizing municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash and recycled rubber in pervious concrete pavement”, Innovative Infrastructure Solutions, Volume 8, Issue 12, December 2023.
50 Engineering Projects on Alternative and Renewable Energy at BAU
The Faculty of Engineering at Beirut Arab University organized its 17th Engineering Day to demonstrate the projects completed by engineering students from various levels and fields of specialization. The Day was entitled “Alternative and Renewable Energy” and exhibited over 50 graduation projects, ranging from designs, models and devices in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Communications, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Computer, Industrial Engineering and Petroleum Engineering. Around 200 students from the Faculty of its two branches in Debbieh and Tripoli participated, and the opening was attended by Prof. Dr. Amr Galal El Adawi, President of BAU, Mr. Mohamed El Saoudi, Head of Saida Municipality, the deans of faculties, staff-members and a crowd of students.
After the National Anthem and the BAU Anthem were played, Prof. Dr. Adel El Kordi, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering spoke, stating that the exhibition deals with an important issue, namely renewable energy and green engineering. He explained that renewable energy is the energy derived from natural and renewable resources, which does not run dry. It is thus produced from wind, water and the sun, and can also be produced from the motion of tides and ebbs, as well as agricultural crops.
Prof. Kordi also highlighted that the Faculty of Engineering, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, has been granted a project funded by the EU. It is a green energy project for green companies, and aims at improving the efficiency of the energy used in agriculture in the Mediterranean basin. This can be achieved by introducing the culture of renewable energy, as well as providing technical support for local skills.
Prof. El- Adawi then expressed his happiness at the opening of the exhibition, since it presents a promising opportunity for the students and constant encouragement for outstanding students to be creative. The exhibition also opens up new horizons for the students through their interaction with the society, which acts as an incentive in entrepreneurship.
Prof. El-Adawi added that this exhibition is part of the University’s commitment to its students to stimulate their innovativeness and creativity, for it is the University’s belief that it is a forum for knowledge, culture and entrepreneurship. It, therefore, fully supports these projects so that they can become a bridge towards a better future.
In the end, the University Shield was distributed as a token of appreciation and gratitude to the firms and companies that contributed to the success of the event. After the ribbon was cut, the guests toured the exhibition in accompaniment of the President.
The Role of Geothermal Energy in Efficient Building Performance
https://www.bau.edu.lb/Architecture-Design-and-Built-Environment/Event/The-Role-of-Geothermal-Energy-in-Efficient-Building-Performance
Targeting building energy use is a key to decrease energy consumption by incorporating energy-efficient strategies into the design. Geothermal system helps us to achieve Zero Carbon design. The lecture revealed a link between geothermal system, human comfort, indoor environmental quality, and aesthetics.
Geothermal energy is an underused resource that emits no greenhouse gas emissions, highly reliable, and is produced locally.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY IN ARAB COUNTRIES
The AFED 2013 Annual Report titled SUSTAINABLE ENERGY IN ARAB COUNTRIES highlights the need for a more efficient management of the energy sector.
The conference was held in 28th and 29th of October at the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. There were 500 delegates from different countries. Of those delegates are public officials including minister/MP/director general level, corporate executives, 50 CEOs, international and regional organizations, 25 heads of agencies and funds, civil society, and academia. 70 media representatives (international, regional and national) have been accredited.
Concerning the future environment leaders’ forum, Arab youth speak out on the right of future generations to equitable access to energy. Arab youth attended the conference came from different universities including BAU (Beirut Arab University), AUB (American University of Beirut), AUS (American University of Sharjah) hosting, AUD (American University of Dubai), USJ (University of Saint Joseph), University of Petra, USEK, LAU (Lebanese American University), etc... Each university was assigned a topic from the AFED report. After discussing each statement prepared by universities, a general statement was prepared by the students and read in the plenary closing session by Rita Naoum (Master’s Degree) from LAU.
Concerning the statement assigned to Beirut Arab University, the topic assigned was about “Energy Efficiency”, and it was prepared by the three delegates from the department of mechanical engineering whose names are listed below:
- Layal Abdallah (graduation year)
- Fadel El-Naamani (graduation year)
- Khalil Darwish (graduation year)
Solar Energy System Workshop
https://www.bau.edu.lb/Engineering/News/Solar-Energy-System-Workshop
Promoters were having hands-on experience in working with solar energy system.
Building Energy Modelling and Monitoring workshop
https://www.bau.edu.lb/Architecture-Design-and-Built-Environment-Tripoli/Event/Building-Energy-Modelling-and-Monitoring-workshop
The Faculty of Architectural Engineering Tripoli branch has organised a scientific workshop with title ‘Building Energy Modelling and Monitoring’. The workshop lasted for three days 29th, 30th November and 1st of December, eight hours per day (total 24 hours).
The objective of this workshop was to furnish guidance on the appropriate application of Building Performance Simulation (BPS), to promote good practice and to offer reference material to support practicing environmental engineers and architects. The workshop has covered the basics of using simulation tools with an emphasis on application and case studies. The workshop also emphasised the importance of simulation validation, in particular building performance monitoring. The workshop included an experiential half-day intricacies and joys of evaluating environmental performance aspects of buildings. Using cutting-edge microprocessor based data loggers and handheld instruments on site, participants have understood about how (and how well) buildings perform.
Participants:
There were 23 participants from various educational and professional backgrounds.
Activities and preparations for the three-day workshop:
The workshop was divided into three main activities in each day: lectures, applications and simulation, in addition to two coffee breaks and lunchtime.
All the facilities were prepared and provided on the third floor of the Faculty of Architectural Engineering, building (F). The preparation included installing Wi-Fi internet, installing the trial software on 30 computers at our computer lab, and printing labels, lecture notes and collecting the workshop data on CDs. On the first day (Saturday 29th), the participants have registered and received the workshop bag (from 8:30 to 9:00), which included all the printed data in addition to the workshop CD. At the end of the third day, the instructor has distributed the workshop certificate to each participant.
The organising committee would like to thank Dr. Wassim Itani (Director of Center for continuing and professional education) for his tremendous effort and support for this workshop. Also, special thanks to Mr. Ahmed Sankari for his continues assistance and unlimited efforts, in addition, we appreciate all the help provided from the student affairs in our Tripoli branch Ms. Rola Homsi and her team.
Finally, this workshop would not have been done without the support of the Vice President for Tripoli Branch Affairs Prof. Khaled Baghdady and the President of Beirut Arab University Prof. Amr El-Adawi.
Report PDF
Building Energy Modelling and Monitoring workshop
Organizing committee:
Dr. Nabil Mohareb; Dr. Kareem Galal; Eng. Yathreb Sabsaby
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