What type of energy is primarily used in Syria?

In Syria, most energy is based on oil and gas. Some energy infrastructure was damaged by the Syrian civil war. In the 2000s, Syria's electric power system struggled to meet the growing demands presented by an increasingly energy-hungry society.

How did Syria's conflict affect the electricity system?

The conflict in Syria led to increasingly frequent blackouts across the country due to damage to the electricity system. This resulted in disruptions to all forms of economic activity and reports of electrical fires caused by problems with the electrical grid.

Why is energy demand increasing in Syria?

Energy demand in Syria has been increasing at a rate of roughly 7.5% per year due to the expansion of the industrial and service sectors, the spread of energy-intensive home appliances, and state policies that encouraged wasteful energy practices, such as high subsidies and low tariffs.

How many power plants were destroyed in Syria?

Violence and looting destroyed three major power plants in Syria between 2015 and 2017: the Aleppo Thermal Station, Zayzoon in Idlib, and al-Taim in Deir Ezzor. Pre-war, these three plants accounted for almost one-fifth of Syria's total generation capacity.

Why did Syria lose its major oil and gas fields?

The Syrian government lost its major oil and gas fields first to the Islamic State and then to the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria. This loss contributed to extreme fuel scarcity and a reliance on imports, notably from Iran.

How did US and EU sanctions affect Syria's electricity sector?

US and EU sanctions strained Syria's ability to import fuel and spare parts, and barred foreign entities (including European and Arab ones) from extending loans or implementing infrastructure projects in Syria's electricity sector.