Iraq’s New Initiative for Clean Energy and Waste

The Chairman of the National Investment Commission, Professor Dr. Haider Muhammad Makiya, announced the issuance of Iraq’s first investment licence for a modern waste treatment project, marking a significant development in the country’s environmental and energy initiatives. Speaking at an expanded press conference on Tuesday, January 21, Dr. Makiya detailed the project’s objectives, benefits, and importance.

The project, set to be implemented in the Nahrawan area, will process 3,000 tons of waste daily while generating 100 megawatts of clean electricity. Dr. Makiya emphasised that this initiative addresses the environmental challenges posed by traditional waste disposal and reduces dependency on fossil fuels. The project will utilise advanced technology to ensure safe and environmentally responsible waste management, with support from the Ministries of Electricity, Environment, Higher Education, and the Baghdad Municipality.

“This project demonstrates the government’s determination to modernise waste management systems and transform waste into a resource for clean energy,” Dr. Makiya said. “It will strengthen Iraq’s power supply and pave the way for similar initiatives in other regions.”

The broader vision includes replicating the project in other parts of Baghdad and across Iraq, with Abu Ghraib identified for the second phase. The Review and Approval Committee conducted a site visit to observe similar projects in China, providing technical assessments that guided the Council of Ministers’ decision to approve the project and grant the investment licence.

The implementing company, a globally recognised Chinese firm, brings extensive expertise to the project. It has processed over 110,000 tons of waste using highly efficient modern technologies and completed 180 similar projects worldwide.

Dr. Makiya expressed optimism about the project’s potential to mitigate environmental damage and support sustainable energy goals. He called on relevant authorities to lend their backing to this initiative, which he sees as a practical solution to Iraq’s environmental challenges.

Representatives from the Ministries of Electricity, Science and Technology, and other stakeholders attended the press conference, highlighting the collaborative efforts that have driven this significant project forward.