Energy Sector Update: Large-Scale Solar Project in Basra
The expansion of renewable energy infrastructure in Iraq has taken a significant step forward with the initiation of a major solar electricity investment project in Basra. Announced by the Ministry of Electricity, this project is poised to become the largest of its kind in the country, with a potential output of 1,000 megawatts of electricity.
Designated as the “Sun of Basra,” this initiative is being executed by the French multinational company Total Energy. An official statement from the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity highlights this project as a landmark venture aimed at enhancing the nation’s electricity generation capabilities utilizing solar energy.
According to Ahmad Musa, spokesperson for the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity, the contract for this investment project has been formalized between the Ministry of Oil and Total Energy as part of the fifth round of electricity generation agreements.
The project will occupy an extensive 9,000 acres in the Basra desert and is set to be developed in four distinct phases, each contributing 250 megawatts to the overall energy generation capacity.
Current electricity production in Iraq stands at approximately 17,000 megawatts. With additional gas supply from the Islamic Republic of Iran to power plants, this output could rise to 27,000 megawatts, although the national demand for electricity peaks between 32,000 and 35,000 megawatts, illustrating a pressing need for enhanced capacity.
