Iraq plans to launch its first ever wind energy project as one of the means the country will use to curb electricity shortages and diversify its sources of energy.
The Ministry of Electricity has chosen a location in Wasit province, Shihabi, for the project. The site was reportedly confirmed based on technical studies, having found that there was efficient wind speed and proper site conditions, as per the Al-Forat Report on Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity Plans.
This project is set at the consultation stage. AMEA Power is among the companies undertaking talks with the ministry, according to reports by Ahmed Mousa, spokesperson for the ministry.
It also began to implement a project of solar power, proposed by AMEA Power in June. This solar project is to be located in Wasit province as well.
Recently, the Iraqi cabinet approved the proposal of the Ministry of Electricity to invite AMEA Power for a bid on the development of a 500 MW solar power plant. The project will also have the option to add a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The project will be developed under a single-source procurement model.
Besides this, Iraq is finalizing a new law on renewable energy. A new renewable energy law will support the integration of solar power among other renewable energy sources into the national grid. According to Al-Forat, Hassan Al-Asadi, the Deputy Chairman of the Parliamentary Electricity and Energy Committee stated.
