How many solar power sites are there in Iraq?

In July 2019, Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity invited independent power producers to participate in developing seven PV solar power sites with a combined capacity of 755 megawatts (MW) in the range between 30 MW to 300 MW. Many local and foreign developers saw the announcement as a move forward in an attempt to diversify the country’s energy mix.

Could a 'OSC' be a solution to Iraq's solar energy crisis?

The Iraqi Ministry of Electricity has been aiming at increasing the share of renewable energy in Iraq but was faced with several challenges including the contractual process for utility scale solar energy. The OSC are a potential solution that could be tailored to the Iraqi context.

What international organizations are supporting Iraq's solar projects?

International organizations, such as the World Bank, IEA1, IRENA2, RCREEE3 and the UNDP4, have been providing technical and commercial support to Iraq’s efforts in deploying utility-scale and rooftop solar power generation.

Does Iraq need solar energy?

Although Iraq tends to promote the country’s solar energy in two ways: Utility-scale PV units could lead to a reduction in burning of oil and gas, and rooftop solar panels would help individual households reduce their own dependence on “expensive and polluting neighborhood generators”. However, there are a lot in between of untapped distributed

What is Iraq's solar energy strategy?

Iraq’s solar energy strategy should be based on attracting foreign direct investments with strong commitment to diversifying its energy mix and to become energy independent bolstered by its willingness to collaborate with international array of local and foreign partners. Iraq’s path forward is not, however, free of potential pitfalls.

Why does Iraq need a solar map?

The solar map will help to identify Iraq’s best solar resources, informing and facilitating renewable energy planning across the country. The map has been very important for showcasing Iraq’s potential solar resources, key information about land availability, populated areas and grid access.