The National Fiber Optic Infrastructure Commercialization and Outsourcing Program evaluated the best options for utilising GECOL’s extensive fiber optic network and transforming it into a productive, revenue-generating national asset. The program assessed whether the network should remain for internal use, be offered through public–private partnerships, or be fully outsourced for commercial operation. After comprehensive technical, financial, and regulatory analysis, the recommended and ultimately adopted option was full outsourcing to specialised telecommunications partners.
This decision enabled GECOL to unlock significant value from its fiber network while keeping its focus on core electricity operations and improving overall sector efficiency.
This work was led by Ed Elrahal, Senior Energy Policy and Institutional Reform Expert, and was implemented by Pragma Corporation and funded by USAID, supporting national efforts to modernise infrastructure and leverage underutilised assets for economic benefit.
GECOL owns a nationwide fiber optic system originally deployed for grid communication and system protection, yet much of this infrastructure remained underutilised. The program identified significant opportunities for monetisation in telecommunications, data services, and national digital connectivity. It evaluated three strategic options: limiting the network to internal SCADA and grid communication, forming partnerships with telecom operators or government digital institutions, or fully outsourcing the network’s commercial operation.
The analysis assessed technical requirements, regulatory factors, security needs, market demand, revenue potential, operational risks, and long-term sustainability. It concluded that full outsourcing offered the greatest value, the lowest operational burden, and the strongest alignment with Libya’s broader digital transformation goals.
Conducted a full assessment of GECOL’s fiber optic network capacity and utilisation
Evaluated three strategic utilisation models: internal use, partnerships, and outsourcing
Completed technical, financial, regulatory, and operational analysis
Identified outsourcing as the optimal option, balancing revenue generation and operational stability
Established a clear framework for outsourcing agreements with telecom partners
Supported the execution of the outsourcing decision, which is now implemented
Strengthened alignment with national digital transformation and ICT development goals
Monetisation of a previously underutilised national asset
Reduced operational and maintenance burden on GECOL
Improved grid communication reliability through dedicated technical oversight
New revenue streams supporting the electricity sector’s financial sustainability
Expanded national telecom capacity for broadband and data services
Strengthened Libya’s digital infrastructure and private-sector engagement
Better alignment between the electricity sector and national ICT strategies
Green Power Associate supports utilities and government institutions in evaluating and commercialising strategic assets such as fiber networks, digital infrastructure, and shared services. Our experts design outsourcing models, partnership frameworks, and commercial strategies that maximise value while ensuring regulatory compliance, operational security, and long-term sustainability.