Interview: Ayman Bashi, CEO, Aldamarki, on how electricity is key to economic and social recovery in Syria
How would you describe the current condition of Syria’s electricity sector and its most urgent needs?
AYMAN BASHI: The electricity sector is emerging from a very difficult period but it is also entering a phase where reconstruction is clearly defined and technically achievable. While workforce gaps and shortages of spare parts remain, there is strong alignment around the central priority: restoring large-scale generation capacity. Over the next three years, at least five major power stations are planned, alongside additional projects under build-operate-transfer models. Power generation is a long-term undertaking. Even under optimal conditions, new plants require a minimum of three years, but the roadmap is now clear.
Why is speed such a decisive factor in rebuilding the country’s energy generation capacity?
BASHI: Electricity underpins every aspect of economic and social recovery. As the earlier generation capacity comes on line, the faster other sectors can follow. While turbines and major equipment are installed towards the end of the process, the most important work can begin immediately: preparing land, roads, fuel and gas connections; and supporting the necessary infrastructure. These activities are local and can easily progress in parallel. Timelines can be compressed without comprising quality with the help of strong coordination and clear leadership.
To what extent can the local private sector support this scale of reconstruction in Syria?
BASHI: The private sector has an important role to play and, in many cases, can move faster than traditional public processes. Decisive governance and streamlined decision-making make a significant difference. While parts of the domestic industrial base have been weakened from the war, this does not prevent progress. Skilled labour, engineers and technical expertise can be mobilised internationally, and key construction inputs can be sourced regionally. The emphasis is less on what is missing and more on how effectively available resources are organised.
In what ways can modern technologies improve efficiency and resilience as the system is rebuilt?
BASHI: Reconstruction creates an opportunity to build modern systems from the outset. Current power stations rely on advanced digital monitoring, predictive maintenance and automated controls that significantly enhance reliability and efficiency. These plants are designed for long operational lives, and embedding modern technology early ensures better performance and lower costs over time. Building once and building well is both practical and economical.
Where do renewable energy sources realistically fit into the short-and medium-term supply mix?
BASHI: Renewable energy offers a valuable complement to conventional power generation. Solar and wind projects can be deployed relatively quickly to help relieve pressure on the system during the transition period. They also support more distributed generation that are closer to demand centres. At the same time, large baseload power stations remain essential. Together, conventional and renewable sources form a balanced and resilient energy mix for the coming years.
What is the role of the national electricity grid in the recovery strategy for Syria?
BASHI: Rehabilitating the national grid is a strategic objective that will unfold in stages. Before the conflict, Syria benefited from an integrated network that allowed power to flow efficiently across regions. In the short term, localised generation will be prioritised to ensure reliability. Over time, investment in grid modernisation and digital control systems will restore national connectivity, allowing electricity to be allocated dynamically based on demand patterns.
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