Iraq Takes First Step in Solar Energy

    The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has issued an invitation to find consultants willing to help Iraq advance the energy policy of solar photovoltaic usage. The goal of this initiative is to deploy 5 MW of the solar system kit power generation capacity in the Bytti residential development project in Najaf, south-central Iraq, and to support the construction of large-scale photovoltaic power stations in the country.

    This US $ 35.1 million bidding project is also intended to develop a regulatory framework, technical guidelines, capacity building and institutional arrangements for the development of solar projects for public and private independent power generators. Interested consultants must submit their quotations by January 15.

    Ali Mirmohammad from Frost & Sullivan said that by 2028, Iraq ’s installed photovoltaic capacity will exceed 5 GW, plus about 1 GW of wind and 0.2 GW of biomass, which can meet 10% of the country ’s electricity needs.

    Iraq's renewable energy program has received support from the World Bank, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the Regional Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, and the United Nations Development Agency. IRENA announced in June that it has included Iraq in its global solar landscape. "Iraq has huge potential for the development of renewable energy resources, and the government has clearly placed solar energy development on a long-term priority."