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.

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.

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.

How much solar capacity will Iraq have by 2030?

Iraq’s solar plans announced in November 2021 call for the addition of 12 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2030. Some 7.5 gigawatts of the planned solar capacity are to come from utility-scale solar plants, and Iraq has reached agreements with developers – at varying stages – for projects that will add 4.5 gigawatts of the total.

Will Iran be able to meet a third of Iraq's electricity needs?

However, supplies have often been erratic or halted during peak demand periods in Iran. In October 2023, Sudani announced a target of meeting one-third of Iraq’s electricity needs from renewable energy sources by 2030. Based on current demand trends, this would require the development of around 18 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity.

How much electricity does Iraq need?

To make up the shortfall, Iraqis have had to resort to private generators that are expensive and cause pollution. According to the specialist publication Iraq Oil Report, citing a senior Electricity Ministry official, the current electricity demand in Iraq is 15 gigawatts, outstripping the supply of 14 gigawatts.