Iraq Aims to Maximise Gas Resources to Fuel Economic Development

The Undersecretary of the Ministry for Gas Affairs, Mr. Ezzat Saber Ismail, has reaffirmed the Iraqi government’s and Ministry of Oil’s strong commitment to enhancing gas investment and developing free gas fields. His remarks came during a field visit to the Basra Gas Company on Sunday, where he outlined strategic efforts aimed at achieving significant industrial and economic progress.

Mr. Ismail highlighted that the ministry’s plans focus on ending gas flaring within the next few years, a vital step toward sustainability and energy efficiency. To support this vision, the ministry has engaged specialised companies to harness associated gas, converting it into usable energy. This initiative aims to fuel the electricity sector and stimulate growth in petrochemical and other industries. The ministry’s efforts have already led to an impressive gas investment rate of 67%, with expectations to reach 70% by the end of the year.

Aligned with the government’s programme and directives from Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Minister of Oil, Mr. Hayan Abdul Ghani, the ministry is determined to capture all gas associated with oil operations. This move is poised to support broader industrial and economic development across Iraq.

During his leadership of a meeting attended by company officials and Mr. Hamza Abdul Baqi, General Manager of the South Gas Company, Mr. Ismail praised the dedication of the Basra Gas Company’s workforce. He noted that their efforts have significantly contributed to the recovery and investment of approximately 1,000 million standard cubic feet per day of gas. He also commended the swift resumption of production at the North Rumaila (NGL) station following a recent fire incident, which was resolved without further accidents.

The Undersecretary further conveyed the appreciation of the Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and called for the accelerated implementation of the second phase of the Basra Gas Plant project. This phase will involve two stages, each processing 200 million standard cubic feet of raw gas. The focus will be on maximising associated gas from the North Rumaila field and other sites, reinforcing the ministry’s commitment to optimising gas resources and fostering sustainable growth in Iraq’s energy sector.

Source: Ministry of Oil