The first of two Turkish electricity-generating barges has reportedly entered Lebanese waters to temporarily provide the country with additional power
The barge, acting as a power plant, is set to provide up to 205 MW of capacity to help support network repairs and upgrades across Lebanon.
Preparations are already underway to receive the second barge, which will increase the power generation to 270 MW when connected to the grid.
The barges, owned by Turkey?s Karkey Karadeniz Elektrik Uretim, will create a floating power plant, forming part of a reported US$360mn three-year contract under which the company will lease the barges to Lebanon.
The country's grid is currently suffering from frequent severe power shortages, with consumption of more than 2,400 MW often exceeding the 1,500 MW of installed capacity.
The country has obtained a US$85mn loan from the Kuwait fund for Arab Economic Development in order to help fund upgrade works at its Zouk and Jiyyeh power facilities.
