Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The Iraqi Ministry of Electricity is actively progressing with the Basra Sun solar power project, an ambitious 1,000-megawatt (MW) utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) initiative situated in the southern province of Basra. This landmark development signifies a critical stride in Iraq's long-term strategy to diversify its energy matrix, which has historically been overwhelmingly dependent on hydrocarbon resources, and to address persistent electricity supply deficits across the nation.

The Basra Sun project, once operational, is poised to become one of the largest solar power installations in the Middle East, representing a significant capital investment in Iraq's renewable energy infrastructure. Ministry officials have underscored the project's importance in bolstering national grid stability and reducing the country's reliance on costly and environmentally impactful thermal power generation, which frequently suffers from maintenance issues and fuel shortages. The initiative aligns with Iraq's broader economic reform efforts aimed at fostering sustainable growth and attracting foreign direct investment into non-oil sectors.

Iraq, a major oil producer, has faced considerable challenges in meeting its domestic electricity demand, particularly during peak summer months when temperatures soar and air conditioning usage escalates. The current installed generation capacity often falls short of actual demand, leading to widespread power outages. The Basra Sun project is specifically designed to inject a substantial volume of clean, reliable power into the national grid, alleviating pressure on existing thermal plants and contributing to a more resilient energy supply.

Industry experts note that Basra's high solar irradiance levels make it an ideal location for large-scale PV deployment, offering optimal conditions for energy harvesting. The project's development is expected to leverage advanced solar PV technology, ensuring high efficiency and long-term operational reliability. Furthermore, the successful execution of this project is anticipated to create numerous employment opportunities within the local economy, spanning construction, operation, and maintenance phases, thereby contributing to local economic development.

This 1 GW solar undertaking is part of a broader national push to integrate renewable energy sources, with Iraq targeting 10 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. The Basra Sun project's progress is being closely monitored by international energy stakeholders, as it could pave the way for additional large-scale renewable energy ventures across the country, signaling Iraq's emergence as a significant player in the regional clean energy transition.