Erbil implements 24-hour electricity project in seven neighborhoods

ERBIL — The Erbil Governor, Omed Khoshnaw, announced on Saturday, that seven additional neighborhoods will be included in the 24-hour electricity project. The neighborhoods are Shahidani Kuran, Bahari Kon, Krekaren, Kurdistan, Naseej, Kuran, and Rizgari. This part of the ongoing “Runaki”, Light, project, aiming to provide 24/7 electricity.

According to the announcement, published on his Facebook page, power distribution infrastructure in these neighborhoods is currently being repaired and evaluated to facilitate the project’s implementation.

“The process of repairing and assessing household electricity systems in these neighborhoods has begun to ensure the project’s execution,” the Erbil Governorate stated.

On Oct. 17, the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Prime Minister Masrour Barzani inaugurated the “Runaki” project, starting with Erbil’s Shadi and Nazanaz neighborhoods. The initiative aims to provide uninterrupted electricity across the Kurdistan Region by 2026. “By the end of 2026, every household and business in the Kurdistan Region will have access to 24/7 electricity,” Barzani stated during the launch event.

The Kurdistan Region, home to over 6.3 million people, has long faced challenges in ensuring a consistent government electricity supply. Despite operating 15 power plants, including hydroelectric, gas, and diesel facilities, residents have heavily depended on private generators, paying monthly fees per ampere. More than 7,000 private generators are currently in use to help meet the region’s energy demand, contributing to noise pollution and significant urban environmental concerns.