Iraq PM Approves New RE Projects, Urges Private Sector Role

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani convened a special session of the National Renewable Energy Team to assess the advancement of the nation's renewable energy strategy.

He directed that renewable energy projects commence by summer, emphasising the need to expedite procedures and actively involve the private sector. The team will collaborate with the Supreme Authority for Coordination between Governorates to oversee billing and collection regulations.

Key initiatives discussed included converting government buildings to solar power, implementing smart energy solutions for the Al-Budur residential complex, installing renewable energy systems in 100 schools and five health centres, and organising a national conference to launch fast-track smart energy solutions.

The meeting granted initial approval for two 20 MW solar power stations in Al-Rusafa and Al-Karkh, and the Ministry of Electricity will install two 3 MW solar units at the Army Canal site as part of Iraq's broader renewable energy drive.

Iraq has made significant strides in its renewable energy sector. In January this year, Saudi Arabia's Acwa Power was awarded a contract to construct a 1,000-MW solar power plant in the Najaf governorate, contributing to Iraq's goal of generating 12 GW of electricity from solar sources.

Recently, TotalEnergies commenced construction of Iraq's largest solar power plant in Basra, with a capacity of 1,000 MW , expected to power approximately 800,000 households upon completion. 

Additionally, GE Vernova and Iraq's Ministry of Electricity propelled key projects forward, including the early completion and commissioning of five critical 132-kilovolt substations across Iraq, enhancing the country's energy infrastructure.

These developments underscore Iraq's commitment to diversifying its energy sources and promoting sustainability.