Iraq: Solar Power for Clean Future by 2030

Solar power in Iraq has significant potential due to the country’s abundant sunlight, with an average of about 5.4 kWh/m²/day of solar radiation. This makes Iraq an ideal candidate for solar energy projects, which can help diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

The Iraqi government has been increasingly recognising the importance of solar energy. In recent years, there have been efforts to expand solar power capacity. For instance, the Ministry of Electricity has initiated several projects aiming to produce 12,000 megawatts of solar energy by the end of 2030. 

Earlier in June, the Prime Minister Office released a statement highlighting its commitment, stating that the government’s focus is “investment as a solution to meet production needs, renewable energy projects, and the search for an economic model that meets aspirations.”

International companies have also shown interest in Iraq’s solar potential, and smaller-scale solar initiatives have been undertaken in various provinces, focusing on providing electricity to rural and remote areas that are not connected to the national grid.

Despite these developments, there are challenges posed by the lack of sufficient infrastructure. The government is addressing these issues for a successful implementation and expansion of solar energy projects in Iraq.

Source: Ministry of Electricity