The possibility of an electricity interconnection between Lebanon and Cyprus is included in Beirut’s broader plans to upgrade its geopolitical and economic role in the Eastern Mediterranean, according to an analysis by the French Embassy in Beirut dated 30 May 2026.
The proposed submarine cable could, in the future, be integrated into the wider Great Sea Interconnector project, potentially connecting Lebanon to the European electricity market via Cyprus.
Regional energy cooperation expanding
The strategy comes as tensions in the Gulf region and disruptions in maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz push countries to explore alternative energy export and supply corridors.
Lebanon is also advancing regional cooperation to address its chronic electricity shortages through partnerships with neighbouring countries.
Gas and electricity projects in focus
Egypt has announced plans to finance the rehabilitation of the Lebanese section of the Arab Gas Pipeline, which runs through Jordan and Syria and supplies gas to Lebanon.
The project would support a new 825-MW power plant planned for Deir Ammar in northern Lebanon.
Lebanon, Syria and Jordan have also agreed on a gas-swap mechanism to facilitate cross-border energy transfers.
Feasibility studies for interconnection
According to the analysis, a multilateral financing body is already funding feasibility studies for a submarine electricity link between Lebanon and Cyprus.
The project could be linked to the Great Sea Interconnector, which aims to connect Greece, Cyprus and Israel, offering Lebanon future access to the European power grid.
Additional proposals include potential links via Syria to Turkey and expanded regional transmission networks involving Jordan.
Transport and digital infrastructure plans
Lebanon is also seeking to strengthen its role as a regional transport hub, including plans to restore the Tripoli–Abboudiyeh railway line near the Syrian border, which has been inactive since 1975.
The line would connect with Tripoli port, a developing special economic zone, and the René Mouawad airport, which is being gradually converted from military to civilian use.
In telecommunications, Lebanon has approved connection to the Medusa submarine cable system, aimed at improving internet resilience and positioning the country as a potential digital corridor between Europe and the Middle East.
Structural challenges remain
Despite ambitious plans across energy, transport and digital infrastructure, Lebanon’s progress will depend on its ability to modernise systems and attract investment amid ongoing economic and political instability.
However, Beirut is seeking to leverage shifting regional dynamics to re-establish itself as a key Eastern Mediterranean hub.
Also read: Occupied areas: Personal data of 364,000 patients on the dark web
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