Libya energy crisis causes severe power and fuel shortages

Libya is facing a severe energy crisis characterized by prolonged power outages and acute fuel shortages. Despite holding Africa’s largest oil reserves, estimated at 48 billion barrels, the nation struggles to meet domestic energy demands. Currently producing approximately 1.5 million barrels of oil per day, Libya only generates about one-third of the fuel required for its own consumption, necessitating massive imports that cost $7.8 billion last year.

The crisis is exacerbated by extreme summer temperatures approaching 50C, which has led to spoiled food, stalled businesses, and increased reliance on expensive generators. Experts and United Nations officials attribute the instability to corruption, weak governance, inadequate maintenance of power plants, and oil smuggling.

The situation is further complicated by a decade of political division between the UN-recognized government in Tripoli and a rival administration in Benghazi supported by military leader Khalifa Haftar.