The Lebanese Center for Policy Studies (LCPS) interviewed some of the participants who attended its conference in collaboration with the Economic Research Forum (ERF) and the Middle East Institute (MEI), to present the findings of a yearlong case study on the role of MSMEs in the clean energy transition in MENA, with a focus on Lebanon. 

The study, conducted between October 2023 and July 2024, explored how MSMEs have navigated the country’s severe economic downturn and energy shortages. With fuel costs soaring, many businesses turned to solar power as a more sustainable alternative. While the crisis posed immense challenges, it also created growth opportunities for renewable energy suppliers and agrifood businesses.

During the conference, experts discussed ways in which the public sector, donors, and international organizations can support MSMEs in their transition to clean energy. The discussions also addressed macroeconomic reforms needed to expand distributed clean energy solutions and enhance energy efficiency in Lebanon. The conference also addressed ways to empower local governments and enterprises to drive a sustainable energy transition.

This conference was part of a broader research initiative by LCPS, ERF, and MEI, with the support of the International Development Research Center (IDRC), examining energy challenges and opportunities for MSMEs in six MENA countries: Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Tunisia, and Sudan.

Click here to access the Lebanon case study report and policy brief.