Libya’s Energy Growth: Highlights of the Upcoming 2026 Energy & Economic Summit

As Libya gears up for significant advancements in its energy sector, the upcoming Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026, scheduled for January 24-26 in Tripoli, promises to be a pivotal event. Senior energy market analysts and key advisory leaders are set to share their insights, with a focus on Libya’s ambitious targets for upstream investment and crude oil production.

Executive Insights from Industry Experts

The summit will feature an impressive lineup of speakers from industry-leading organizations. Notably, Haythem Rashed, Managing Director of Quidux Consulting Limited, along with Jennifer Jumbe and Cristina Tomé Martinez from S&P Global Commodity Insights, will provide expert perspectives on current trends and future opportunities in the Libyan energy market. Their participation underscores the increasing interest in Libya as it moves further towards revitalizing its oil and gas sector.

Timing and Theme of LEES 2026

The fourth edition of LEES is timely as it coincides with Libya’s ambitious goals in the energy sector. Under the theme “Infrastructure & Investment Driving Energy Growth”, the summit is officially endorsed by the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Oil and Gas, and the National Oil Corporation (NOC). This backing emphasizes the importance of the event in shaping Libya’s energy landscape.

Libya’s Energy Landscape: A Crucial Economic Driver

Libya’s hydrocarbon sector is integral to its economy, contributing approximately 90% of government revenues, 95% of exports, and over 60% of GDP. The NOC has set a near-term target to increase oil production from around 1.36 million barrels per day (bpd) to 1.6 million bpd by the end of 2026. This ambition is part of a longer-term strategy to hit 2 million bpd within three to five years, highlighting the need for sustained foreign investment.

Infrastructure Challenges and Investment Needs

Achieving these production targets hinges on significant investments—estimated between $3-4 billion—aimed at modernizing Libya’s aging infrastructure. However, this endeavor is closely tied to the country’s political and security stability. The likelihood of attracting international capital hinges on continual improvements in these areas, allowing for a conducive environment for foreign partners.

Current Market Dynamics

According to S&P Global Commodity Insights, Libya’s production recovery appears promising; the country reached a 12-year high in oil output in mid-2025. However, the sector remains vulnerable to political fluctuations. This reality amplifies the need for resilient infrastructure and robust investment frameworks that can withstand volatility.

A Boutique Advisory Firm’s Role in Libyan Energy

Quidux Consulting, established in 2020, offers specialized advice focused on the Libyan energy market. By delivering analytical and strategic advisory services, the firm aims to assist both public and private institutions in navigating the complexities of Libya’s evolving energy landscape.

Recent Upstream Developments

Recent activity in the upstream sector signals renewed interest from international oil companies. Firms like Eni, bp, and Repsol are resuming drilling operations in various basins, while compliance from TotalEnergies and OMV further underscores this momentum. Importantly, gas development has also garnered attention, with significant projects designed to enhance domestic supplies and boost exports to Europe through pipelines like the GreenStream to Italy.

Demand for Data and Strategic Guidance

As highlighted by James Chester, CEO of Energy Capital & Power, the involvement of analysts and advisory experts at LEES reflects the increasing demand for high-quality data and strategic guidance amidst Libya’s reopening upstream sector. This trend indicates a growing recognition of the necessity for informed decision-making in a market characterized by both opportunities and challenges.

Collaborative Opportunities at the Summit

LEES 2026 aims to be a melting pot of ideas, bringing together government stakeholders, national and international oil companies, investors, and service providers. The summit will provide a vital platform for dialogue about Libya’s production outlook, licensing strategies, and essential infrastructure pipelines, fostering partnerships that could lead to significant investments in one of Africa’s most promising hydrocarbon markets.