Iraqi Electricity Minister Ziad Ali Fadel announced the continuation of work on the Karbala solar power plant project, which represents the first solar project to actually enter Iraq's national electricity grid, Shafaq News reported on July 29.
The project reflects Iraq's urgent need to address chronic electricity shortages that have plagued the country for decades, whilst reducing dependence on expensive fuel imports and ageing power infrastructure that struggles to meet growing demand, particularly during scorching summer months when air conditioning usage peaks.
A statement from the minister's office said the project's total capacity will reach 300 MW and is being built on an area of 4,000 dunums, describing it as one of Iraq's most prominent renewable energy projects.
The project is being implemented under the supervision of the General Company for Power Generation - Middle Euphrates, with investment from Al-Bilal Group Company.
The electricity minister explained that the number of solar panels installed so far has reached 39,000 panels, out of half a million solar panels that will be installed within the project.
The minister confirmed that the ministry is closely monitoring implementation phases, stressing his commitment to expanding the share of renewable energy in total national electricity production as part of the shift towards clean and sustainable energy sources.
The Karbala solar project represents a significant step in Iraq's efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels for electricity generation.
The project's location in Karbala desert takes advantage of Iraq's abundant solar resources, with the country receiving high levels of solar radiation throughout the year.