Baghdad implements plan to increase electricity production to 27,000 megawatts

In an effort to bolster its electricity production capacity, the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity has announced plans to elevate output to 27,000 megawatts, marking a significant increase of 3,000 megawatts compared to the previous summer.

Ahmed Musa, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Electricity, disclosed to the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that meticulous planning has been undertaken to ensure the seamless production, transportation, and distribution of electricity, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of power plants.

Iraq’s dependence on gas imports from Iran has prompted a strategic shift towards harnessing domestic resources, including flared gas and renewable energy, for electricity generation. However, the efficacy of this transition is hindered by US sanctions on Iran, complicating Baghdad’s ability to procure Iranian gas. Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Electricity remains steadfast in its commitment to address the nation’s energy needs.

The perennial issue of daily power outages, lasting up to 10 hours, is exacerbated during the scorching summer months when temperatures soar above 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit). Against this backdrop, Ziyad Ali Fadel, the Iraqi Minister of Electricity, recently announced a groundbreaking agreement with Siemens Energy to convert flared gas into fuel within a six-month timeframe.

This collaboration with Siemens Energy underscores Iraq’s determination to mitigate gas flaring and capitalize on untapped energy resources to fortify its national grid. The initiative aligns with the objectives of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable energy practices and environmental stewardship.

Under the terms of the agreement, Siemens Energy aims to utilize 120 million cubic feet of flared gas within the initial six-month period, with an additional 120 million cubic feet to be processed over the subsequent year. The resultant gas will be utilized to power a newly constructed 2000-megawatt power plant, further enhancing Iraq’s energy infrastructure and bolstering its capacity to meet growing electricity demands.

In light of these developments, Baghdad’s proactive measures to enhance electricity production signal a significant step towards achieving energy security and fostering sustainable development in the region.