Solar Energy Iraq takes a major step forward as the country prepares to inaugurate its first industrial-scale solar power plant in Karbala. The launch marks a significant move to reduce chronic electricity shortages and diversify the national energy mix. Officials plan to unveil the facility on Sunday, highlighting its importance for sustainable growth and environmental protection.
The plant sits on a vast desert site in the al-Hur area, southwest of Baghdad. Covering about 4,000 dunams, the facility features tens of thousands of solar panels arranged in long rows. At full capacity, the installation will generate up to 300 megawatts, providing a crucial boost to Iraq’s fragile power grid.
Nasser Karim al-Sudani, head of the national solar energy team in the prime minister’s office, emphasized the project’s strategic value. He noted that another solar initiative in Babil province will soon deliver 225 megawatts. Moreover, construction will begin shortly on a massive 1,000-megawatt plant in Basra, expanding Iraq’s renewable portfolio.
Deputy Minister of Electricity Adel Karim outlined the broader roadmap for Solar Energy Iraq. He revealed that projects totaling 12,500 megawatts are at various stages, from execution to negotiation. Excluding the Kurdistan region, these ventures could eventually supply nearly 20 percent of national power demand.
Industry experts view these efforts as a response to Iraq’s persistent power crisis, which has triggered rolling blackouts during peak demand seasons. By shifting toward solar power, the government aims to cut reliance on fossil fuels while lowering harmful emissions. Consequently, the strategy supports both environmental goals and long-term energy stability.
Karbala’s solar plant also signals Iraq’s readiness to attract private and foreign investment in renewables. Officials expect the project to create local jobs and strengthen technical expertise in clean technologies. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates Iraq’s capacity to adopt large-scale solutions that address energy security and climate challenges.
Looking ahead, authorities intend to accelerate the rollout of additional solar facilities across several provinces. As these projects come online, Solar Energy Iraq is set to become a cornerstone of national development and environmental responsibility.
