Insights from an assemblage perspective for a (better) understanding of energy transitions: Facing the challenge of sustainability in Lebanon’s energy crisis

The energy sector in Lebanon faces many challenges: an ailing infrastructure dependent on fuel oil, a weakened electricity network damaged by violent conflicts over the years and an increasing demand for its services due to population growth, immigration and rising living standards. To fill the gap between this demand and the inadequate supply of electricity services, an informal system of provision based on polluting diesel generators has emerged. The resulting situation exacerbates the economic burden on households in Lebanon and leads to environmental and energy injustices, whilst holding back prosperity for the country. By examining the myriad assemblages of electricity access, the case of Lebanon illustrates how the concept of assemblage, as a theoretical lens, can help advance thinking on energy and sustainability transitions for cities of the global South by paying close attention to the informal system of energy provision that has emerged over the years. This contribution argues that for an energy transition to be realisable in the current climate urgency, an inclusive approach that seeks collaboration among multiple actors is necessary. The rootedness and localised nature of many informal providers can be an asset to a decentralised energy system that can integrate green and renewable energy sources.