Will totalenergies build a solar power plant in Iraq?

French energy major TotalEnergies will build a 1-gigawatt solar power plant in Iraq as part of a cluster of contracts it was awarded in 2021 for an integrated project that entails a total investment of $27 billion over 30 years.

Will totalenergies help Iraq diversify its oil-dependent energy sector?

TotalEnergies is a key player in clean energy, only last month we reported Total Energies had won a concession for a 1Gw offshore wind power project in Germany. This landmark solar project will help Iraq diversify its heavily oil-dependent energy sector by tapping into abundant solar resources.

When will Iraq's Energy Project become operational?

According to Iraq’s Minister of Electricity, Ziyad Ali Fadhil, the first phase of the project will become operational by the end of the year. This initial phase alone will deliver 250 megawatts of clean energy to the national grid — a major boost for local households and businesses.

Will Iran be able to meet a third of Iraq's electricity needs?

However, supplies have often been erratic or halted during peak demand periods in Iran. In October 2023, Sudani announced a target of meeting one-third of Iraq’s electricity needs from renewable energy sources by 2030. Based on current demand trends, this would require the development of around 18 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity.

How much electricity does Iraq need?

To make up the shortfall, Iraqis have had to resort to private generators that are expensive and cause pollution. According to the specialist publication Iraq Oil Report, citing a senior Electricity Ministry official, the current electricity demand in Iraq is 15 gigawatts, outstripping the supply of 14 gigawatts.

Why does Iraq have a poor electricity supply?

Iraq’s inadequate electricity supply has been a drag on economic growth and a source of social instability. The problem is getting worse as the electricity supply is unable to meet rising demand due to rapid population growth. To make up the shortfall, Iraqis have had to resort to private generators that are expensive and cause pollution.