Iraq Energy Storage Investment Project

What is the future of electricity supply in Iraq?

The future of electricity supply in Iraq can be achieved through several pathways, but the most affordable, reliable, and sustainable approach involves reducing network losses by at least half, strengthening regional interconnections, utilizing captured gas in efficient power plants, and increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix.

How does Iraq's power sector perform?

Despite its vast energy resources, the performance of the country’s power sector is sub-optimal. Iraq’s power sector suffers from a double whammy: unsustainable growth in power demand, coupled with under-investment and a lack of reforms in generation, transmission, and distribution. The result is a growing mismatch between power supply and demand.

Does Iraq have a good power sector?

As a major producer, Iraq’s electricity sector is almost entirely dependent on fossil fuels, which account for more than 80% of power generation. Despite its vast energy resources, the performance of the country’s power sector is sub-optimal.

How has the turmoil impacted Iraq's power infrastructure?

The turmoil has undermined Iraq’s ability to maintain and invest in its power infrastructure. This report maps out immediate practical actions and medium-term measures to tackle the most pressing problems in Iraq’s electricity sector.

Does Iraq have a shortage of electricity?

Two decades on from the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, efforts to improve the country’s electricity infrastructure have lagged. Despite massive hydrocarbon reserves, including the world’s fifth-largest proved crude oil and 12th-largest proved natural gas reserves, Iraq struggles with chronic electricity shortages.

How can network losses be reduced in Iraq's electricity supply?

The most affordable, reliable and sustainable path for the future of electricity supply in Iraq requires cutting network losses by half at least, strengthening regional interconnections, putting captured gas to use in efficient power plants, and increasing the share of renewables in the mix.