Iraq to initiate the grand launch of its initial industrial-scale solar power plant in Karbala
In a significant move towards energy independence, Iraq is opening its first industrial-scale solar power plant in the historic city of Karbala. The 4,000-dunam (approximately 1,000 acres or 400 hectares) solar power plant, located in the al-Hur desert area, is one of several projects with a combined capacity of 12,500 megawatts either being implemented, in the approval stage, or under negotiation in the country.
The solar power plant in Karbala is expected to generate up to 300 megawatts of electricity at peak capacity. This is just the beginning, as another plant under construction in Babil province will add 225 megawatts, and a 1,000-megawatt solar power project is set to begin in the southern province of Basra.
These solar projects have the potential to significantly reduce Iraq's reliance on imported natural gas, especially from Iran, which has been affected by energy shortages and US sanctions. Currently, Iraq produces about 28,000 megawatts of electricity, with nearly 8,000 megawatts coming from natural gas imported from Iran. However, recurring disruptions in these imports have led to power outages and energy crises.
The company or institution involved in the construction of the two other solar power plants in Babil and Basra provinces, following the one in Karbala, is the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This collaboration underscores the global commitment to renewable energy and Iraq's role in the transition towards a greener future.
Excluding the semi-autonomous northern Kurdistan region, these solar projects could potentially supply up to 20 percent of Iraq's overall electricity demand. This shift towards solar power is not only environmentally friendly but also economically beneficial, as it reduces Iraq's dependence on imported energy and stabilises its energy supply.
Iraq's solar power revolution is a promising step towards a sustainable and independent energy future. As more solar projects come online, we can expect to see a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, improved energy security, and a brighter future for Iraq and its people.
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