Is Iraq a good country for solar energy?

Iraq holds abundant oil and gas resources and has strong solar PV potential. Its production to 2030 is set to be the third largest contributor to global oil supply. By the same year, the government expects that renewable capacity will amount for 5% of the country’s total system capacity.

Why is energy important in Iraq?

Energy in Iraq plays a crucial role in both the national economy and the global energy markets due to the country's vast oil reserves and significant status within the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). Iraq holds abundant oil and gas resources and has strong solar PV potential.

How does Iraq generate electricity?

Iraq's electricity generation primarily depends on fossil fuels. In 2021, natural gas was the largest source at 57.3% of the total, followed by oil at 36.7%. Renewable energy, mainly from hydroelectric power, contributed 5.9%. As of 2023, the 30 gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity cannot meet summer peak demand.

Does Iraq need solar power?

Although solar generation accounted for an insignificant share of total power generation, Iraq plans to develop renewable energy projects to replace some of its oil and natural gas-fired capacity and to reduce natural gas and electricity imports from Iran (Table 4).

How many thermal power plants does Iraq have?

Since 2021, Iraq has started operating three thermal power plants with a combined capacity of 2.6 GW, and Iraq has plans to add 6 GW of new generation capacity by 2025. Iraq also plans to increase the energy efficiency of existing plants and other electric power sector infrastructure.64

What type of energy is used in Iraq?

Renewable energy here is the sum of hydropower, wind, solar, geothermal, modern biomass and wave and tidal energy. Traditional biomass – the burning of charcoal, crop waste, and other organic matter – is not included. This can be an important energy source in lower-income settings. Iraq: How much of the country’s energy comes from nuclear power?