A Qualitative Research on the Current Barriers and Challenges to the Transition to Renewable Energy in Tripoli, Libya

Due to the country’s rapidly growing population, improved energy consumption habits, and the necessity for the government to maintain oil and gas as a key source of revenue, Libya is seeing an increase in its need for electricity and power. All of these considerations would suggest that renewable energy (RE) is the answer to the problem of rising energy demand, particularly given that Libya has a variety of renewable energy resources. Despite everything, there are still implementation issues with renewable energy. The obstacles to the development and use of renewable energy are connected to economic hurdles, public awareness and agreement barriers, and knowledge barriers. Consequently, this study seeks to explore the difficulties. In this study, six representatives from Libya’s Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energies were interviewed via online meetings and semi-structured interviews to learn more about the difficulties and obstacles that have been encountered when implementing renewable energy sources in the Tripoli region. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interviews, and the respondents provided a detailed analysis of the obstacles to the use of renewable energy in Libya. The purpose of the research was to examine the difficulties and impediments to the use of renewable energy sources in Libya, as well as potential benefits and legislative measures that would make it simpler to lessen Libya’s reliance on fossil fuels. Reiterating the need to minimize Libya’s reliance on fossil fuels and to promote the development of renewable energy. This study provides a summary of the findings while examining the existing challenges and potential benefits of RE development in Libya. This research explores the theoretical and policy implications of the study. The research recommendations for readers are completed by a list of possible directions for more research. In light of the low prices of fossil fuels that are being subsidized by the Libyan government, it became evident from the data analysis that the largest barrier preventing the Libyan people from switching to clean energy is one of economics.