Electricity supply rises to 20 hours per day in Iraq
Iraq has witnessed a substantial advancement in its electricity supply, with the Ministry of Electricity reporting an increase to 20 hours per day in 2023. This notable improvement from the 13-hour supply observed in the corresponding period of 2022 has been attributed to the utilization of gas supplies sourced from Iraqi fields for energy generation.
Ahmed Musa, the spokesperson for the Electricity Ministry, acknowledged existing challenges but affirmed ongoing efforts to promptly address them.
Musa underscored the resilience of some Iraqi power plants, emphasizing their operation on locally generated fuel, which has served to mitigate the impact of reduced gas imports from Iran on the country’s power grid. The collaborative support from the Ministry of Oil was also highlighted, reflecting a cohesive governmental approach to bolstering the electricity sector.
In addition to this, Musa reported that numerous power plants, particularly in southern Iraq, are now operating on fuel produced within the country, showcasing a strategic shift towards energy self-sufficiency. Despite historical reliance on gas imports from Iran, recent initiatives have focused on tapping into flared gas and embracing renewable energy sources to diversify and enhance electricity generation.
However, challenges persist, notably with the significance of gas imports from Iran for Iraq’s electricity generation, compounded by complications arising from US sanctions. The nation grapples with daily power outages, exacerbated during scorching summers when temperatures soar beyond 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).
The root cause of these persistent outages lies in the long-neglected infrastructure, marred by decades of conflict, corruption, and mismanagement. As Iraq navigates these challenges, ongoing collaborative efforts offer a glimpse of progress in fortifying and improving the resilience of its electricity supply.
