Solar glass in northwest Syria

Is solar energy a solution to Syria's electricity crisis?

After more than thirteen years of war, Syria’s electricity crisis has only deepened, compounding the suffering of its people. The former Assad government failed to secure stable energy supplies, and as shortages worsened and fuel prices soared, the regime turned to solar energy projects as an alternative, seeking to mitigate the crisis.

Is solar energy a viable option in Syria?

As the electricity crisis worsens, solar energy is no longer just an option – it has become an unavoidable necessity. Yet the high cost of installing photovoltaic systems has pushed many Syrians to rely on subsidized loans, particularly those provided by the Renewable Energy Support Fund, which offers interest-free financing.

Where do solar panels come from in Syria?

However, renewable energy equipment does not enter Syria easily. Four importers we spoke to confirmed that most solar panels and batteries are shipped from China to Syria through Jebel Ali Port in the UAE or, at times, the Port of Aqaba in Jordan.

How to get a solar loan in Syria?

By February 2023, branches of the Syrian Commercial Bank began accepting applications for renewable energy loans. According to the official process, applicants submit a request to the Fund, which determines the financing ceiling based on a technical study of the required solar system.