Lecturer . Dr. Hussain Ali Hatam AlShamri
College of Education for Human Sciences / Department of Applied Geography
Introduction
Iraq, characterized by its copious sunlight availability, stands primed to exploit solar energy’s potential in propelling sustainable development and bridging its escalating energy requisites. As the global landscape pivots resolutely towards ecologically benign and replenish able energy reservoirs, Iraq’s cognizance of solar energy’s manifold capacities emerges prominently. This recognition transcends the mere fulfillment of burgeoning energy exigencies; rather, it encompasses a prescient approach to assuaging ecological complexities. Delving into Iraq’s trajectory, this exposition scrutinizes the odyssey towards cultivating sustainable solar energy, meticulously underscoring its latent prospects, intricate impediments, and the assiduous endeavors marshaled to inaugurate an energy milieu characterized by its environmental stewardship.
Abundant Solar Potential
Iraq’s favorable geographical disposition bestows upon it abundant solar irradiance, rendering it a prime contender for the advancement of solar energy initiatives. The annual tally of approximately 300 sunlit days underscores the nation’s capacity to harness a noteworthy quantum of solar power. This inherent advantage not only beckons Iraq to curtail its dependency on fossil fuels but also beckons it to diversify its energy portfolio, thereby actively participating in the worldwide campaign against climate change.
Overcoming Energy Challenges
Iraq has grappled with formidable energy challenges in recent decades, characterized by persistent electricity shortages and an unstable power grid. These intricacies have cast a shadow over economic expansion and have cast palpable repercussions on the daily lives of its citizens. However, the integration of solar energy into Iraq’s energy landscape emerges as a potent antidote to these predicaments. The induction of solar power assumes a pivotal role in rectifying these issues, operating as a harbinger of stability. Through the generation of clean and dependable electricity, solar energy possesses the capacity to infuse stability into the energy grid, ushering in an era of steadfast power provision. This heralds not only an elevation in energy security but also offers the potential to invigorate economic growth and enhance the overall quality of life for the populace.
Furthermore, a comprehensive report accentuates that substantial untapped potential resides within Iraq’s energy framework. Notably, it underscores that a considerable volume of gas, currently amounting to 16 billion cubic meters annually, is indiscriminately flared. This wasteful practice becomes a poignant point of reflection, as the gas that goes to waste in this manner would be more than adequate to replace the nation’s existing imports. By harnessing this untapped resource and redirecting it toward efficient power plants, Iraq could yield a transformative surge in energy production. This not only augments energy availability but also diminishes the nation’s reliance on external energy sources, concomitantly bolstering energy security and economic resilience [1].
Government Initiatives and Policies
Energized by a proactive ethos, the Iraqi government has embarked on an ambitious trajectory to invigorate the solar energy sector. A milestone event occurred in 2020 when the Ministry of Electricity unveiled the visionary “Roadmap for Solar Energy” initiative. This strategic blueprint bears testament to Iraq’s commitment to elevating its solar prowess while advancing the renewable energy quotient within its energy matrix. At its core, this roadmap exudes a resolute objective: augmenting Iraq’s solar capacity in a concerted bid to bolster the prominence of renewables within the nation’s energy makeup. Articulated within its contours is the blueprint for the widespread establishment of solar power plants across the expanse of the nation. This orchestrated expansion serves to lay a fertile ground, enticing both domestic and international investors to partake in the burgeoning solar enterprise.
This drive is imbued with an inherent urgency, given the anticipated trajectory of Iraq’s electricity demand. By the horizon of 2030, this demand is poised to undergo a twofold amplification, while the gap between supply and demand continues to widen. This fissure is a corollary of Iraq’s expanding population, which burgeons by over a million individuals annually. Should the current energy supply framework and network infrastructure remain unchanged, the onus to meet the escalating energy demand would necessitate a twofold surge in domestic generation, imports, and localized generation by 2030, culminating in an aggregate supply exceeding 250 terawatt-hours. Nevertheless, a myriad of opportunities for strategic enhancements exists, poised to reshape this trajectory. These prospects range from substantial investments in transmission and distribution networks, poised to curtail network losses and optimize efficiency, thus engendering a more resource-efficient and resilient energy landscape. Encouraging the more efficient utilization of electricity, including the implementation of progressive tariffs, stands as a pivotal factor in preventing the persistence of supply deficits caused by surges in summer demand. Additionally, Iraq stands poised to capitalize on its substantial renewable energy capacity. The analysis underscores that elevating the contribution of solar photovoltaic and wind sources to 30% of the electricity supply by 2030 would yield advantages not only for Iraqi consumers, manifesting as decreased electricity expenses, but also for the environment. By curbing network losses and transitioning toward an energy blend wherein renewables assume a more prominent position, an estimated 9 billion cubic meters of gas could be released for alternative applications in 2030. [1].
Investment and International Collaboration
Iraq is investing in renewable energy and has set a target of 33 percent clean energy by 2030. The country has a significant potential for solar and wind power, and the government is looking to attract foreign investment to develop these resources. In 2021, Iraq’s Central Bank approved a ID1 trillion ($680m) fund for renewable energy projects. The government has also signed contracts with international energy firms to develop solar and wind power plants. In September 2021, France’s TotalEnergies signed contracts worth $27bn for oil and gas and solar energy projects in Iraq, which will include the development of a 1GW solar plant [2].
There are a number of opportunities for international collaboration in the development of renewable energy in Iraq. These include:
Sharing of expertise and technology: Iraq can benefit from the experience of other countries that have developed renewable energy sectors.
Provision of financial assistance: International donors can provide financial assistance to help Iraq develop its renewable energy sector.
Building of partnerships: Iraq can partner with international companies to develop renewable energy projects.
The development of renewable energy in Iraq has the potential to bring a number of benefits to the country, including:
Increased energy security: Renewable energy can help Iraq reduce its dependence on imported oil.
Improved air quality: Renewable energy can help to reduce air pollution, which is a major problem in Iraq.
Job creation: The development of renewable energy can create jobs in the construction, operation, and maintenance of renewable energy projects.
Economic growth: The development of renewable energy can contribute to economic growth by attracting foreign investment and creating new businesses.
The international community can play a key role in supporting Iraq’s efforts to develop its renewable energy sector. By sharing expertise, providing financial assistance, and building partnerships, the international community can help Iraq achieve its target of 33 percent clean energy by 2030.
Here are some specific examples of international collaboration in the development of renewable energy in Iraq:
In 2020, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched a $100 million program to support the development of renewable energy in Iraq. The program will focus on solar and wind power, and it will help to train Iraqis in renewable energy technologies [3].
In 2021, the European Union (EU) announced a €100 million grant to support the development of renewable energy in Iraq. The grant will be used to finance solar and wind power projects, and it will also help to improve the regulatory framework for renewable energy in Iraq [4].
In 2022, the World Bank approved a $150 million loan to support the development of renewable energy in Iraq. The loan will be used to finance solar and wind power projects, and it will also help to improve the energy efficiency of public buildings in Iraq [5].
These are just a few examples of the international collaboration that is taking place in the development of renewable energy in Iraq. The international community is committed to supporting Iraq’s efforts to transition to a clean energy future.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite its potential, the path to sustainable solar energy development in Iraq is not without challenges. Some of the key hurdles include:
Infrastructure: Developing the necessary infrastructure, including transmission lines and energy storage, to efficiently distribute and manage solar power is crucial.
Financing: Securing funding for large-scale solar projects can be a challenge, requiring innovative financing mechanisms and risk-sharing arrangements.
Policy Implementation: Effective implementation of solar energy policies and regulations is essential to attract investment and ensure project viability.
Skill Development: Building a skilled workforce capable of designing, installing, and maintaining solar energy systems is essential for the long-term success of the sector.
Conclusion
The adoption and widespread integration of solar energy systems in Iraq hold the potential to address critical issues of energy security while also alleviating the financial burden of importing gas from neighboring countries. The copious availability of sunlight in Iraq, coupled with its strategic geographical location, provides a unique opportunity to tap into a renewable energy source that is both environmentally sustainable and economically advantageous.
By embracing solar energy, Iraq can significantly enhance its energy security. The persistent challenges of electricity shortages and an unstable power grid can be mitigated through the consistent and reliable generation of clean electricity from solar systems. This stability not only ensures a consistent power supply but also serves as a foundation for economic growth, fostering industries, businesses, and a higher quality of life for its citizens.
Moreover, the considerable potential of solar energy can play a pivotal role in reducing Iraq’s reliance on gas imports, particularly from Iran. The wasteful practice of flaring gas, a valuable resource, highlights the pressing need to make more efficient use of available energy sources. Solar energy provides an alternative that not only curbs wastage but also lessens the need for foreign energy dependence, thereby enhancing energy sovereignty and reducing financial outflows.
By adopting solar energy solutions, Iraq stands at the threshold of reshaping its energy landscape. The strategic alignment of solar energy with Iraq’s vision for sustainable development not only mitigates pressing energy challenges but also positions the nation as a proactive participant in the global movement towards renewable energy adoption. As the world embraces cleaner and more self-reliant energy sources, Iraq has the opportunity to capitalize on its abundant sunlight, boosting its energy security, conserving resources, and unlocking a pathway towards a more prosperous and resilient future.
References
International Energy Agency. (2019). New IEA report provides practical roadmap to address Iraq’s current electricity shortfall and future energy needs 2019. https://www.iea.org/news/new-iea-report-provides-practical-roadmap-to-address-iraqs-current-electricity-shortfall-and-future-energy-needs
IRAQI NEWS. (2022). CBI launches 685 million USD initiative to support renewable energy. CBI launches 685 million USD initiative to support renewable energy – Iraqi News
United States Agency for International Development (USAID) (2022). STRENGTHENING UTILITIES AND PROMOTING ENERGY REFORM (USAID SUPER) IRAQ ENERGY SECTOR ASSESSMENT. PA00ZJHZ.pdf (usaid.gov). March 28, 2022
Delegation of the European Union to Iraq (2019). Support to Energy Sector Reform in Iraq. Support to Energy Sector Reform in Iraq | EEAS (europa.eu). 04.12.2019.
the World Bank (2022). The financial and technical assistance of the World Bank Group to Iraq (Overview). Iraq Overview: Development news, research, data | World Bank. Jun 01, 2022
