Iraq to increase electricity production significantly in the coming years. The government is pushing forward with ambitious energy projects. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced that Iraq’s electrical grid will gain 60,000 megawatts once projects finish.
During the inauguration of the Bismayah Combined Cycle Power Plant expansion, al-Sudani confirmed Iraq is working in a multinational partnership. The goal is to secure the gas needed for power plants. This includes building a floating and a permanent platform at Al-Faw Grand Port. Both platforms should be operational by 2026.
Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel said Iraq achieved a record energy output of 28,000 megawatts. He credited the success to a plan involving long-term maintenance contracts and plant renovations. The strategy also includes advanced cooling systems and partial use of imported fuel.
Iraq signed deals with General Electric for 24,000 megawatts of new capacity. Siemens will provide an additional 14,000 megawatts. The government expects to finalize an agreement with Shanghai Electric Group soon. This deal will add 10,000 megawatts to meet growing demand.
Although Iran halted gas deliveries for power generation, Iraq is taking action. The government is adopting measures to ease the electricity crisis this summer. These steps aim to ensure a stable and reliable supply.
Iraq also approved contracts for 7,500 megawatts of solar energy by 2030. This is part of a national plan targeting 12,000 megawatts of solar power.
In 2023, the ministry negotiated with TotalEnergies to build a 1,000-megawatt plant in Basra. Additionally, PetroChina will construct a 750-megawatt facility in Muthanna. Furthermore, ACWA Power will construct a 1,000-megawatt solar plant in Najaf. Finally, Masdar will build four plants totaling 1,000 megawat
Ultimately, through these initiatives, Iraq aims to increase electricity production and diversify its energy sources. The plan will strengthen the country’s long-term energy security. Moreover, the government is positioning Iraq as a leader in sustainable power generation in the region.
