Can photovoltaic power power Iraq's green energy sector?

In a strategic move toward harnessing the untapped potential of Iraq’s solar landscape, major global photovoltaic (PV) players are taking the lead in shaping the nation’s green energy sector.

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 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.

Does Iraq need solar energy?

Although Iraq tends to promote the country’s solar energy in two ways: Utility-scale PV units could lead to a reduction in burning of oil and gas, and rooftop solar panels would help individual households reduce their own dependence on “expensive and polluting neighborhood generators”. However, there are a lot in between of untapped distributed

How much power will Iraq have in 2025?

If the current supply for new generation continues, Iraq will be able to add 8,000 - 10,000 MW of power generation to the grid in the next five years to reach 28,000 - 30,000 MW by 2025 including on average 1,000 – 1,500 MW of renewable energy (mainly utility-scale solar PV)39. 38.

How much energy does Iraq produce?

In addition, Iraq is currently producing 2,500 MW from the existing hydro power stations on Tigris and Euphrates rivers with plan to build several other new hydro dams in the future. 15. IEA (2019), ‘Iraq’s Energy Sector: A Roadmap to a Brighter Future’, International Energy Agency https:// webstore.iea.org/iraqs-energy-sector 16.