A Review of Energy Efficiency Measures in Commercial Buildings: The Case of Lebanon

Lebanon suffers from a chronic problem of electricity shortages, and therefore power outages are common. Electricite du Liban (EDL), the national electricity provider, covers 61% of the total electricity demand, whereas 58% of private households and nearly 100% of commercial and industrial enterprises are using backup generation as an alternative power supply. With the escalation of the electricity supply crisis, several solutions and mitigation plans have been put into action with a total estimated cost of $6.52 billion covering infrastructure, supply, and legal framework. This paper focuses on energy efficiency measures within the commercial sector, which accounts for more than 20% of Lebanon's energy consumption. A literature review is used to formulate a set of hypotheses highlighting the factors that will positively affect the success of an energy efficiency program adopted by businesses in the commercial sector in Lebanon. This paper is part of an ongoing research project that examines user behavior modifications via questionnaires, interviews, and case study analyses with decision makers and end users.