Customized Operation and Maintenance of Syrian Power Distribution Network

Restoring and modernizing Syria's power distribution network requires a combination of urgent infrastructure rehabilitation, microgrid deployment, and institutional capacity building to ensure reliable electricity delivery.

Current Challenges

Syria's electricity sector has been severely impacted by prolonged conflict, aging infrastructure, and fuel shortages. As of April 2025, only 1.8 GW of generation capacity remains operational, with electricity supplied for just 4–6 hours per day in major cities, while many rural areas are completely disconnected. Nearly 50% of high-voltage towers are damaged, and 40% of the transmission and distribution network requires full rehabilitation. Transmission losses are high due to poor-quality wires and transformer stations, and per capita electricity consumption has fallen to 15% of pre-war levels .

Customized Operation and Maintenance Strategies

1. Urgent Infrastructure Rehabilitation

• High-voltage transmission lines: Repairing critical 400 kV interconnector lines is essential to restore regional connectivity with Jordan and Turkey, enabling electricity imports and stabilizing the network .
• Substations: Rehabilitating damaged high-voltage transformer substations near demand centers improves power flow, reduces technical losses, and enhances operational flexibility .
• Preventive maintenance: Implementing a structured preventive maintenance schedule for transformers, circuit breakers, and distribution lines reduces unplanned outages and extends equipment life.

2. Microgrid Deployment

• Localized generation: Deploying microgrids powered by solar PV, small-scale wind turbines, or combined heat and power (CHP) units can provide immediate relief to communities and industrial hubs without waiting for full grid restoration .
• Resilience: Microgrids can operate independently during main grid failures, reducing the risk of cascading outages and ensuring critical services like hospitals and water pumping remain operational .

3. Digital and Smart Grid Integration

• SCADA systems: Implementing a national SCADA-based grid management system allows real-time monitoring, fault detection, and automated control of the distribution network .
• Advanced metering: Smart meters enable accurate consumption tracking, demand response, and improved billing efficiency, supporting both operational and financial sustainability.

4. Renewable Energy Integration

• Solar and hybrid systems: Expanding solar PV and hybrid generation reduces reliance on diesel generators, lowers air pollution, and leverages Syria's abundant solar resources .
• Pilot projects: Initiating small-scale renewable projects in critical areas can demonstrate feasibility and attract private investment.

5. Institutional Capacity Building

• Technical assistance: Training engineers and operational staff in modern grid management, maintenance practices, and renewable integration ensures long-term sustainability .
• Regulatory reforms: Establishing clear policies and frameworks encourages private sector participation and investment in the electricity sector .
• Operational efficiency: Reorganizing the Ministry of Energy and affiliated institutions improves coordination, planning, and execution of maintenance programs .

6. Phased Roadmap for Recovery

• Phase 1 – Foundational Stabilization (3–6 months): Focus on urgent repairs, restoring electricity to essential services, and creating a regulatory framework .
• Phase 2 – Grid Assessment and Sector Activation (18 months): Conduct technical and financial feasibility studies, repair priority grid sections, and launch pilot renewable projects .
• Phase 3 – Full Modernization and Integration (36 months): Implement SCADA systems, scale renewable and hybrid systems, upgrade infrastructure, and enable cross-border interconnections .

Conclusion

A customized operation and maintenance approach for Syria's power distribution network must combine immediate infrastructure rehabilitation, deployment of resilient microgrids, integration of renewable energy, and capacity building within the Ministry of Energy. By following a phased roadmap and leveraging international technical assistance, Syria can rebuild a reliable, efficient, and sustainable electricity system, supporting both domestic stability and regional energy integration .