Oil-rich Iraq is shifting focus, taking advantage of its sunshine and creating a growing market for solar power.

Karbala

Iraq is advancing its solar energy sector, capitalizing on its abundant sunlight and vast desert areas. Major projects include a 1,000 MW solar plant in Basra and a 300 MW facility near Karbala, the latter being Iraq's first operational solar plant built entirely by local companies. These initiatives aim to promote energy independence and reduce the country's dependence on imported fuel.

Despite these efforts, Iraq faces significant challenges, including an ageing national grid, technical issues from high temperatures and dust, and a rapidly increasing demand for electricity. The government has set an ambitious target of reaching 12 GW of renewable capacity by 2030, but achieving this will require sustained investment and international cooperation. Smaller-scale solar installations are also being launched to expand access to clean energy across urban and rural areas.

Solar power projects are gaining momentum in Iraq

Iraq gets nearly 300 days of sunlight every year. It has vast deserts in the west and south. To take advantage of this sun-drenched landscape, solar power projects are now taking shape. A 1,000 MW solar plant is being built in Basra, while other projects are gaining momentum nationwide. The goal is to drive energy independence and reduce fuel imports. Near Karbala, a 300 MW solar farm with half a million panels is being constructed to feed power into the national grid. Work began on the Karbala solar power plant in August 2024. It spans an area of four square kilometres and is part of a larger project. This is Iraq's first operational solar facility, fully built by local companies. Experts stress that connecting solar power to Iraq's ageing national grid remains challenging because of fluctuating output requiring specialised systems, unlike those for fossil fuel plants. Iraq's ambitious plan is to reach 12 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. But the challenges posed by its ageing grid and the need for sustainable investment remain. Achieving success will depend on sustained government commitment and strong partnerships with international energy experts to guide Iraq towards a cleaner energy future. Beyond larger plants, smaller scale solar projects are also launching across urban and rural areas, expanding access to clean energy. There are environmental challenges such as high temperatures, high temperatures and dust. Over 200 dusty days per year pose technical challenges to solar efficiency, but solutions are being developed. Iraq faces a steep 10-15% annual increase for demand in electricity, far above global averages. Iraq produces around 30,000 MW daily, but needs up to 50,000 MW to meet domestic demand. It relies on Iranian gas and electricity to supply nearly one third of its power production, making it vulnerable to supply disruptions and political pressures. There are frequent power outages, pushing people to use diesel generators in their homes and businesses. Harnessing solar potential is not just an energy solution, but it could also be a driver for economic growth and environmental protection. The Kenyan company is taking on two major environmental crises in the waters of the Middle East.

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Washington

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Jerusalem

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Paris

Ukraine Invasion

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Brussels

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Breakdown