AANES faces shortage of transformers after Turkish strikes on NE Syria

The targeted stations in the city of Kobani and the town of Amuda are now offline, creating a critical shortage of transformers and spare parts, according to a spokesperson.

Ziyad Rostum, co-chair of AANES’ Energy Committee, reported that the Turkish forces have repeatedly targeted electrical infrastructure, aiming specifically at high-capacity transformers that power much of northern and northeastern Syria.

Rostum explained to North Press that the transformers, which operate at 66,000 volts, are essential to the stations’ functionality.

Each transformer, according to the official, is uniquely suited to Syria’s electrical system, weighs between 70 and 120 tons, and costs from $500,000 to $1 million, depending on size.

The recent strikes mark the third such assault on electrical stations by the Turkish forces, affecting 15 transformers and causing extensive damage.

In addition to current power shortages, the region’s energy needs have increased over the years as population growth has surged, yet Syria’s electrical infrastructure has not been modernized since 2011.

Ziyad Rostum indicated that the region now urgently needs at least 10 new transformers to meet basic demands.

To address the crisis, the AANES is reaching out to traders, organizations, and international companies to secure replacements. However, Rostum noted significant challenges, including border restrictions on importing equipment and the absence of formal banking systems in the region, complicating financial transactions.