Iraq is setting ambitious targets to ramp up its solar energy capacity, with plans to deploy approximately 12 gigawatts (GW) of solar power by the end of 2030, an adviser at the National Investment Commission revealed on Tuesday.
Rahim Al-Jaafari, speaking to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), highlighted the significant progress already made in advancing solar energy initiatives. He disclosed that a comprehensive 12-GW solar plan has received approval from the Council of Ministers, with approximately 7.5 GW of capacity already allocated to various companies.
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“The Commission is actively streamlining the procedures for granting investment licenses, paving the way for the commencement of solar energy projects,” Al-Jaafari affirmed.
Iraq's commitment to renewable energy forms a key part of its adherence to the Paris Agreement, which necessitates transitioning away from fossil fuels towards sustainable alternatives such as solar and wind power, alongside waste incineration initiatives, Al-Jaafari emphasized.
In a bid to further diversify its energy portfolio, Iraq is exploring waste-to-energy projects, with an imminent trial scheduled to test electricity production from waste materials. The trial, slated to involve approximately 3,000 tons of waste, will take place in the Nahrawan district, situated east of Baghdad.
Addressing wind energy prospects, Al-Jaafari acknowledged that Iraq may not possess abundant wind resources compared to some other nations.
