How can Iraq address its current electricity shortfall & growing power needs?

BAGHDAD – Iraq, one of the world's biggest energy producers, can address its current electricity shortfall and growing power needs through immediate action to relieve pressure on the system, according to an in-depth report published Thursday by the International Energy Agency.

Can Iraq cut its electricity network losses?

The new IEA report, Iraq’s Energy Sector: A Roadmap to a Brighter Future, maps out immediate practical actions and medium-term measures to tackle the most pressing problems in Iraq’s electricity sector. The analysis finds Iraq has huge potential to cut its electricity network losses, which are among the highest in the world.

What is the future of electricity supply in Iraq?

There are a number of pathways available for the future of electricity supply in Iraq but the most affordable, reliable and sustainable path requires cutting network losses by half at least, strengthening regional interconnections, putting captured gas to use in efficient power plants, and increasing the share of renewables in the mix.

How has the turmoil impacted Iraq's power infrastructure?

But the turmoil has also undermined the country’s ability to maintain and invest in its power infrastructure. This report maps out immediate practical actions and medium-term measures to tackle the most pressing problems in Iraq’s electricity sector.

How can Iraq improve electricity supply during the summer peak?

Promoting the more efficient use of electricity, including by introducing more progressive tariffs, would play an important role in ensuring that the growth in demand during the summer peak does not continue to outpace supply. Iraq also needs to take advantage of its abundant renewable energy potential.

Does Iraq need solar power?

Iraq also needs to take advantage of its abundant renewable energy potential. The analysis shows that expanding the share of solar PV and wind to 30% of electricity supply by 2030 would bring benefits both to the Iraqi consumer, in the form of reduced electricity bills, and to the environment.