22/07/2024

Power crisis deepens in North and East Syria amid Turkish attacks and generator failures

NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — Electricity generators across North and East Syria have transformed from a temporary solution into a significant crisis for residents. Frequent malfunctions, diesel fuel shortages, and complete power outages due to Turkish bombings of energy facilities have exacerbated the situation.

The region of North and East Syria, like the rest of the country, has seen a drastic reduction in electricity supply to cities and villages. The situation worsened in Zalin (Qamishli) and its countryside, where power became virtually nonexistent following Turkish attacks on vital installations late last year. This has added immense pressure on the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES).

For years, DAARNES permitted the operation of private electricity generators in city neighborhoods to provide power to homes and businesses. These operations were regulated by municipal offices, which set working hours and prices per ampere, and ensured the supply of diesel. However, generator malfunctions, fuel supply issues, and the greed of some generator owners have led to frequent outages.

Hussein Ali from Zalin (Qamishli) told Syriac Press that generators are not a viable solution due to their numerous issues, especially the insufficient diesel supply and frequent breakdowns.

Dalo Muhammad mentioned that some residents have resorted to installing solar panels for electricity. However, he stressed that the high cost of solar panels is prohibitive for many.

In Qabre Hewore, Suhail al-Hawar urged DAARNES officials to increase the diesel allocation for neighborhood generators to ensure more operating hours, particularly during the scorching summer months. Meanwhile, Muhammad, a generator owner in Qabre Hewore, called for a secure and steady diesel supply to keep his generator running. He also requested the authorities to provide water for cooling the generators to prevent them from overheating and shutting down in high temperatures.