By Jamal Adel.
Tripoli, 25 May 2014:
The Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Ali Muhairig, has said that everything is being done to ensure that Libya has a consistent energy supply during the summer.
Speaking at a press conference, Muhairig expressed however fears that security issues might lead to power cuts and he urged politicians to do everything in their power to prevent this type of situation, which would then lead to fuel shortages.
“A number of power stations across the country are now either repaired or undergoing repairs. We have done everything in our power to keep electricity consistent for the summer, particularly during the month of Ramadan,” spokesperson for the Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Wesam Shaban, later told the Libya Herald.
“We anticipate that the Gulf Power Station in Sirte, which is currently undergoing maintenance, will be connected to the national grid on 28 May, and that the Sarir station will be reconnected to the network before the start of Ramadan. Repairs are also being made at the Tripoli power station to prepare for the onset of summer,” added Shaban.
Historically, increased power consumption across Libya over the summer has maxed out the national grid, causing severe power cuts.
Muhairig had resigned as Electricity Minister in January along with four others who were members of the Justice and Construction Party. He was asked to stay on by the then prime minister, Ali Zeidan, until a replacement was found. As no one was found and Zeidan himself has departed, he is still in post. [/restrict]