Does Iraq need solar energy?

Iraq has abundant untapped solar resources that could allow it to achieve its target and reduce reliance on imports of electricity. Additionally, the cost of electricity powered by solar energy is lower than that of oil- or gas-fired energy.

What is Iraq's solar energy strategy?

Iraq’s solar energy strategy should be based on attracting foreign direct investments with strong commitment to diversifying its energy mix and to become energy independent bolstered by its willingness to collaborate with international array of local and foreign partners. Iraq’s path forward is not, however, free of potential pitfalls.

How much solar power does Iraq have in 2023?

According to the latest statistics by the International Renewable Energy Agency, it had just 1,599 megawatts of renewable energy capacity at the end of 2023. Iraq has abundant untapped solar resources that could allow it to achieve its target and reduce reliance on imports of electricity.

How many solar power sites are there in Iraq?

In July 2019, Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity invited independent power producers to participate in developing seven PV solar power sites with a combined capacity of 755 megawatts (MW) in the range between 30 MW to 300 MW. Many local and foreign developers saw the announcement as a move forward in an attempt to diversify the country’s energy mix.

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.

How much solar radiation does Iraq receive?

Around 15,000 square kilometers of southern and western regions of Iraq, representing 3.5 percent of its total land area receive sufficient direct solar radiation between 2,800 to 3,000 hours per year. 18.