In a major move toward energy sustainability, Iraq has announced plans to add 12,000 megawatts of solar energy to its national electricity grid by 2030, as part of a joint strategy between the Ministry of Oil and the Ministry of Electricity.
This initiative comes as the country grapples with a chronic electricity shortage, which remains a pressing challenge for the current government.
Government Prioritizes Renewable Energy
Iraq’s Oil Minister Hayan Abdul-Ghani emphasized that solar energy has become a top priority in the country’s energy strategy. According to the minister, solar power is one of the key solutions to closing the gap between electricity supply and demand.
The government’s plan includes:
Phase one: Generating 5,000 megawatts of solar power
Final target: Reaching 12,000 megawatts by 2030
International Collaboration and Climate Goals
In a further step to advance its renewable energy goals, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani recently announced Iraq’s intention to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA)—a global initiative of over 120 member countries focused on promoting solar energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
This move aligns with Iraq’s broader objective to diversify its energy mix and mitigate the effects of climate change, while responding to the growing domestic demand for electricity.
Ongoing Projects and Investments
To support its renewable goals, Iraq has entered into agreements with international energy giants:
TotalEnergies (France) – building a 1,000 MW solar plant in Basra
PetroChina (China) – developing a 750 MW project in Muthanna
According to Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel, 40% of existing solar projects have already been completed. He also shared that the ministry has a new roadmap to add 1,750 megawatts of solar energy to the grid in the short term.
Closing the Electricity Gap
In 2024, Iraq produced 27,000 megawatts of electricity—far below the estimated 48,000 megawatts needed to meet national demand. Minister Fadel expressed confidence that once the solar expansion plan is fully implemented, Iraq’s electricity generation will be able to cover local needs.
Source: IraqiNews.com
