Iraqi Ministry of Electricity to Strengthen Gas Imports from Turkmenistan
A delegation from the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity plans to visit Turkmenistan to finalize the procedures necessary for importing gas, as confirmed by an official from the ministry. This initiative is aimed at securing an additional 14 million cubic meters of gas.
Saad Jassim, the director of the Energy Directorate at the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity, stated, "Negotiations with Turkmenistan are ongoing. We have completed all necessary procedures; however, we are currently awaiting some formal international approvals."
On August 24, 2023, an Iraqi delegation from the Oil Ministry and representatives from Turkmenistan’s energy sector reached a preliminary agreement to initiate gas imports to support power plant operations.
"We are set to visit Turkmenistan shortly to address this matter, which will enable us to import 14 million cubic meters of gas," Jassim added.
To ensure the consistent operation of its power plants, Iraq has relied heavily on gas imports from the Islamic Republic of Iran. "As of now, there have been no disruptions in gas exports from Iran. There are no decisions in place to halt these exports," Jassim noted.
Iraq currently generates approximately 27,000 megawatts of electricity with the assistance of gas and electricity imports from Iran, although the nation requires around 35,000 megawatts during peak summer months.
While Iranian gas has been the primary source of imports, the Iraqi government is actively seeking to diversify its gas supply sources. "The government’s decision and political will have led us to pursue multiple avenues for gas procurement," Jassim stated.
As a country, Iraq boasts significant gas reserves amounting to 127.3 trillion cubic feet, which represents about 75% of its total gas consumption needs.
In anticipation of potential supply disruptions, Jassim expressed confidence in the country’s ability to pivot to alternative sources, including importing gas from Qatar and Algeria, should Iranian gas supplies be interrupted.
This strategic move reinforces Iraq’s commitment to enhancing its energy security and reducing reliance on a single source for critical gas imports.
