Kirkuk Approves Solar Projects to Support Iraq’s USD 6 Billion Green Energy Plan

The administration of Kirkuk has approved several sites for new solar power plants as part of Iraq’s national strategy to expand renewable energy and cut dependence on fossil fuels, Governor Rakan Taha announced recently.

Speaking at the Kirkuk International Solar Energy Exhibition, Taha said the projects will help reduce pressure on the national grid and curb power outages, especially during peak summer demand. He added that the local administration will provide full administrative and technical support to ensure timely implementation in collaboration with the Ministry of Electricity and private investors.

The exhibition, which runs for several days, features technology showcases and expert discussions on Iraq’s green energy future amid rising government interest in sustainability and renewable investments.

Iraq, still heavily reliant on oil for electricity generation and export revenues, has been grappling with chronic power shortages and dependence on imports. To address this, the government has rolled out a USD 6 billion renewable energy initiative targeting 12 GW of green power by 2030, in partnership with TotalEnergies, Masdar, and PowerChina.

Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel said the plan aims to add 10,000 MW to the national grid, marking a major step in modernising Iraq’s energy infrastructure and improving energy security.