Can Syria resurrect its oil and gas production?

Resurrecting oil and gas production will not be easy. Before the war, Syria produced 383,000 barrels a day. Now, it produces less than 90,000, according to the World Bank. Facilities and pipelines, including those that deliver energy to Iraq, Jordan and Egypt, have been destroyed or damaged. The country has been importing more oil than it exports.

What type of energy is primarily used in Syria?

In Syria, most energy is based on oil and gas. Some energy infrastructure was damaged by the Syrian civil war. In the 2000s, Syria's electric power system struggled to meet the growing demands presented by an increasingly energy-hungry society.

Can the United States rebuild Syria's economy?

Even so, there is widespread agreement that the single most important step in rebuilding Syria’s economy can be taken only by the United States: Lift the punishing layers of sanctions that have effectively cut off Syria from international commerce and investment.

Why is energy demand increasing in Syria?

Energy demand in Syria has been increasing at a rate of roughly 7.5% per year due to the expansion of the industrial and service sectors, the spread of energy-intensive home appliances, and state policies that encouraged wasteful energy practices, such as high subsidies and low tariffs.

Can Syria return if there is no electricity or rule of law?

Attracting those with education, skills and resources to return is crucial for Syria’s revival. “Syrians with money are key,” said Dr. Landis at the University of Oklahoma, but many of them will not return if there is no electricity or rule of law. Syria’s neighbors also have a keen interest in the return of refugees and in rebuilding.