Iraq Accelerates Solar Expansion With 120 New Sites To Ease Summer Power Shortages

Iraq is taking major steps to solve its long-standing electricity shortages by preparing more than 120 sites for new solar power projects. These locations are spread around the outskirts of Baghdad and several other provinces, and they are now ready for investment. By identifying and clearing these specific plots in advance, the government aims to make it easier for both local and international companies to start building solar plants without facing long delays. This move comes as the country prepares for the heavy electricity demand of the summer season, when temperatures often rise above 50 degrees Celsius and power cuts become common.

For many years, Iraq has struggled with a weak power grid and has relied heavily on costly energy imports, especially from Iran. The extreme heat puts tremendous pressure on the system, often causing severe blackouts. The government now wants to shift toward renewable energy to reduce dependence on imports and to improve the stability of the grid. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has highlighted solar power as an essential part of the country’s future energy plan. The government hopes to generate 12,000 megawatts of renewable energy by 2030, which would be a major improvement from the current limited solar capacity.

The preparation of these 120 sites supports several large solar projects already under development in partnership with leading international companies such as TotalEnergies from France, ACWA Power from Saudi Arabia, and Masdar from the UAE. One of the biggest projects, known as the Basra Sun plant, aims to produce 1,000 megawatts of clean power. Along with large-scale installations, the Ministry of Electricity is also promoting smaller district-level solar units and encouraging the use of rooftop panels on government buildings, schools, and health centers.

By making use of its vast desert areas and strong sunlight, Iraq hopes to supply more reliable electricity to households, reduce power cuts, and lower pollution. The government is now working to speed up construction and improve transmission lines, marking an important step toward a more secure and sustainable energy future.