Iraq has an ambitious plan to boost up its power capacity with plans to add 11,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity in the next three years.
The step-up in capacity will be achieved through new projects and a planned grid link with neighbouring countries. The present production is 26,000 MW of electricity in Iraq, but the nation’s energy needs are estimated to be ~40,000 MW.
Ziad Fadhil, the Minister of Electricity, revealed that a significant portion of Iraq’s power network relies on imported gas from neighbouring Iran, as domestic gas production falls short of the demand. The Electricity Ministry is tackling this pressing challenge with a comprehensive plan to augment the country’s power generation capacity.
“Around 11,000 MW of electricity will be added to the nation’s grid,” said Fadhil.
The strategy to achieve the target will includes network expansions and a strategic grid connection with nearby states, along with the implementation of renewable energy projects.
In a major move towards embracing sustainable energy solutions, Iraq has finalised contracts with TotalEnergies, a prominent French energy company, and other foreign firms to construct solar power plants, revealed the Minister. Further, additional projects will be awarded to other companies to further bolster its renewable energy portfolio.
With this, Iraq seeks to meet its growing energy demands and reduce dependence on imported gas.
