Iraq launches first large-scale solar plant to combat electricity shortages

On September 21, 2025, Iraq inaugurated the country's first industrial-scale solar plant in Karbala province, located southwest of Baghdad. This initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the persistent electricity crises that have plagued the nation, despite its rich reserves of oil and gas. The solar plant is expected to generate up to 300 megawatts of electricity, which will contribute to the national network and help alleviate the heavy reliance on conventional fuels, especially during peak demand hours. The plant is part of an ambitious plan by the Iraqi government, which is committed to expanding renewable energy capacity across the country. The newly opened facility represents the first of its kind with substantial capacity in Iraq, as stated by Safaa Hussein, the executive director of the plant. With rows of sleek solar panels spread across the desert landscape, the solar project endeavors not only to supply electricity but also to reduce environmental impacts associated with gas emissions. This development comes amid a backdrop of severe electricity shortages in Iraq, a situation that has been exacerbated over the decades by war, corruption, and administrative mismanagement. In addition to the solar plant in Karbala, other projects are in the pipeline, including a 225 megawatt facility under construction in Babil province and a larger project of 1,000 megawatts planned for Basra. These projects align with Iraq's broader strategy to integrate renewable energy solutions into its power grid, aiming to fulfill a significant portion of national electricity demand, particularly in the context of an urgent need to diversify energy sources. The Deputy Minister of Electricity, Adel Karim, revealed that Iraq currently has solar projects with a combined potential of 12,500 megawatts at various stages of implementation. While Iraq suffers from chronic electricity deficits, current production stands between 27,000 and 28,000 megawatts, but consumption ranges from 50,000 to 55,000 megawatts. The power shortages are often most acute during the hot summer months when temperatures soar, leaving citizens dependent on diesel generators or uncomfortable living conditions without adequate cooling. The ongoing reliance on imported Iranian gas, which contributes significantly to the power supply, raises concerns about compliance with U.S. sanctions. Nevertheless, the recent developments indicate a proactive shift toward renewable energy solutions and a substantial commitment from the Iraqi government to solve its energy crisis.