By Abdullahi Lukman
Libya is stepping up efforts to diversify its energy sector and reduce its heavy dependence on oil and natural gas by expanding renewable energy, with support from Türkiye’s expertise and investment, officials said on Wednesday.
The North African OPEC member, which currently generates most of its electricity from hydrocarbon-fired power plants, is targeting 20% renewable energy in its electricity mix by 2035 under its National Renewable Energy Strategy.
Despite significant solar and wind potential, progress has been slow due to longstanding fuel subsidies and political instability.
Abdusselam al-Ensari, chairman of the Renewable Energy Authority of Libya, said the sector is gradually opening up to international investors.
A comprehensive renewable energy law aimed at regulating the sector and strengthening public-private partnerships is currently under review in the House of Representatives.
Al-Ensari said Turkish companies are expected to play a major role in building capacity, launching pilot projects and participating in construction and investment processes.
He added that Libya welcomes partnerships between Turkish firms and local institutions to accelerate renewable energy deployment.
Türkiye’s Energy and Natural Resources Minister, Alparslan Bayraktar, recently described 2026 as a potential “landmark year” for bilateral energy cooperation, signaling plans to expand trade and joint projects.
In addition to renewables, Turkish firms have shown interest in Libya’s first oil exploration bidding round in more than 17 years, with results expected soon.
Oil and Gas Minister Khalifa Abdulsadek said Türkiye could also play a key role in offshore energy development.
Libya, one of Africa’s largest oil producers, has faced years of political division and instability since the 2011 uprising that toppled Moammar Gadhafi.
The country remains split between rival administrations in the east and west, a factor that has made foreign investors cautious.
Asil Younes Ertime, CEO of Libya Renewable Energy Company, said Libya has vast land resources, high solar irradiation and an existing electricity grid capable of integrating renewable projects.
He noted that Libyan officials visited Türkiye in December 2025 to study its renewable energy model, including private sector investment structures and grid management systems.
Ertime said contracts for new projects are expected to be signed through Libya’s Renewable Energy Authority, with further cooperation discussions planned during a renewable energy exhibition in Türkiye in April.
He added that the Government of National Unity supports deeper Turkish participation, citing strong economic ties and geographic proximity between the two countries.
