Damascus Sees Improved Electricity, But Concerns Remain Over Fairness and Cost
Damascus is experiencing a noticeable improvement in electricity service after years of crippling power cuts, offering a welcome relief to residents and businesses. While challenges persist, the increased stability is already positively impacting daily life across the city.
Easing Burdens on households & Education:
Residents like Maha Damashqieh, a Damascus housewife, are celebrating the change. “Electricity is much better now, and food no longer spoils,” she told Levant24, highlighting the return of basic comforts. Lawyer Fares al-Ahmad echoed this sentiment, noting the critically important benefit for students who can now study without interruption. Though,he cautioned against further price increases,arguing that “electricity is a citizen’s right” given current economic pressures.
Revitalizing Businesses:
the improved power supply is also boosting the commercial sector. Abu Omar,a sweets shop owner in Mezzeh,reports operating solely on grid electricity,eliminating expensive backup power costs.Elias Farah, a restaurant owner in Bab Touma, emphasized the importance of a stable supply for essential equipment like ovens and refrigerators.
Uneven Access & pricing Debate:
Despite the progress, concerns remain. Residents point to disparities in service between neighborhoods, with some areas like Al-Muhajirin receiving better access than others. Calls for a fairer distribution system are growing.
the recent price increase to 600 Syrian pounds per kilowatt-hour is attributed by the Ministry of Energy to rising operational costs and the need for grid modernization. An official source explained that subsidies are maintained for low-income households and limited consumption,with a subsidized bracket offering prices up to 60% below production costs. The Ministry also introduced incentive rates for small businesses to encourage productivity.
The Ministry maintains its commitment to building a more efficient, balanced, and equitable electricity system for all citizens, focusing on reliability to reduce the indirect costs of outages. However, ensuring fair access and affordable pricing remain key challenges as Damascus strives for a stable power future.
[Image: Syrian women walk past a privately owned electricity generator in the Ain Tarma area, on the eastern outskirts of the capital Damascus (Louai Beshra/AFP)]
