Iraq to install solar power systems at 530 government buildings as part of renewable energy push

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity announced Sunday that solar power systems will be installed at 530 government buildings, a move officials say marks a significant step toward diversifying the country’s energy sources and easing pressure on the national power grid.

“This reflects a serious commitment to diversify energy sources and adopt renewable energy,” ministry spokesperson Ahmed Musa told the Iraqi News Agency.

The installations aim to reduce the reliance of government facilities on the national grid, which has long struggled with shortages and inconsistent supply. “The electricity that used to be supplied to government buildings will now be redirected to citizens in order to stabilize and increase supply hours,” Musa said.

The shift is part of the National Initiative for Energy Support, which the government has paired with a separate program offering low-interest loans to citizens for home solar installations. Musa said the initiative is expected to cut down emissions from diesel generators, reduce fuel costs, and limit damage to the electricity distribution network caused by unregulated wiring.

He added that the Ministry of Planning has endorsed several components of the strategy, including new investment regulations for private energy projects and the introduction of electronic billing systems. The government also plans to formalize energy use in informal settlements and agricultural zones.

“These measures also aim to organize energy use in informal settlements and agricultural areas,” he said. “The goal is to gradually integrate clean energy into both public institutions and eventually private use.”

Musa emphasized that the solar policy is now mandatory for government agencies. “The idea is for government buildings to set an example for citizens in adopting clean energy.”

He also pointed to Iraq’s partnerships with global development organizations, including the German Development Agency and United Nations agencies such as UNDP, to expand access to solar and waste-to-energy technologies.

“The world today is moving away from gas and fossil fuels,” Musa said. “Iraq is actively cooperating with international organizations to support solar projects and help secure funding or grants.”

“The energy crisis is one of the most urgent issues facing the world,” he added. “With rising drought, desertification, and climate extremes, Iraq is aligning with global efforts to expand renewable electricity generation — not only in government institutions, but in public and private sectors as well.”

Iraq has been actively pursuing renewable energy projects, especially solar power, as part of its broader strategy to reduce fossil fuel consumption. On March 7, 2025, Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity announced the official launch of the “Basra Sun” solar power project, developed in partnership with French energy company TotalEnergies. The project builds on agreements signed on April 8, 2024, to begin construction of a 1,000-megawatt solar facility in Basra’s Artawi field. Later, on October 29, 2024, QatarEnergy announced its partnership in the venture, which is expected to produce 1.25 gigawatts of electricity — enough to power around 350,000 homes.