Reestart Project: A Journey of Innovation, Resilience, and Sustainable Energy
In the face of Lebanon’s economic turmoil and the devastating impact of the Beirut port explosion, Reestart Project emerged as a transformative force, dedicated to navigating the complex landscape of introducing sustainable energy solutions. With a general objective to promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation , and a specific goal to enhance investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency , Reestart Project set out to create an enabling environment for Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) to thrive in Lebanon’s evolving energy sector. The recent closing ceremony of the Reestart Project held on January 17th 2024, in the presence of Ms. Alessia Squarcella, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Lebanon, marked the culmination of a successful journey. Despite facing the challenges of Lebanon’s economic crisis, the project demonstrated determination, resilience, and innovation . The ceremony provided an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable results achieved by Reestart Project. Reestart Project overcame obstacles with notable achievements, conducting 35 meticulous energy audits and providing 127 engineers with ESCO certifications. The project played a pivotal role in capacity-building initiatives , offering three modules focused on energy management, measurement verification, and performance contracting . In the face of financial constraints, Reestart provided crucial support for six Energy Service Performance Contracts (ESPC) , with an Arbitration Committee ensuring their smooth implementation. Recognizing the importance of disseminating knowledge, the project facilitated the development of green business strategies for 35 SMEs and 10 ESCOs . This comprehensive initiative included training, a sustainability program roadmap, an online Environmentally Sustainable Business Assessment tool, international 3rd Party Green Business Certification, and effective marketing collaterals. Reestart Project also made it international with a groundbreaking online hackathon, connecting Lebanese and international entities and enriching the understanding of efficient energy solutions. Acknowledging the vital role of the private sector , Reestart Project contributed to Lebanon’s economic recovery by fostering an environment where private enterprises could thrive. The resilience and innovation of these enterprises became pivotal in the face of crises, showcasing the project’s commitment to sustainable growth. . “Empowering Healthcare” Pilot Project “Empowering Healthcare” Pilot Project
One standout example of Reestart Project’s impact is the “Empowering Healthcare” pilot project at Centre Hospitalier du Nord (CHN) . This initiative involved the installation of a 210.6 kW peak on-grid Photovoltaic (PV) system, showcasing the transformative power of the ESCO model. Beyond a mere solar installation, it strategically ensures uninterrupted healthcare services, reduces operational costs, and contributes to a sustainable energy paradigm. CHN, like many medical facilities globally, faces the critical challenge of maintaining a continuous and reliable power supply. In a healthcare setting, where lives depend on the functioning of medical equipment, power disruptions can have severe consequences. The installation of the on-grid PV system aims to address this challenge, providing a sustainable and independent power source to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of critical medical equipment.
The ESCO model , a cornerstone of this initiative, facilitates a paradigm shift in the hospital’s energy management strategy . Through the Energy Service Performance Contract (ESPC), CHN can optimize energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall sustainability . This contract ensures the hospital’s savings from the PV system installation will be reinvested into the ongoing improvement of energy efficiency measures.
As we celebrate the achievements of the Reestart Project, we recognize the collective impact of each milestone on Lebanon’s journey towards a sustainable and resilient energy future. The project is a demonstration of transformative changes in the most challenging circumstances and an example of how the ESCO model can be applied to enhance the energy resilience of critical institutions, ultimately contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.