Karbala Solar Plant Marks Iraq’s First Renewable Energy Project

Prime Minister Al-Sudani on Sunday inaugurated the first phase of the Karbala Solar Power Plant, marking Iraq’s entry into solar-generated electricity. The launch, held via video conference, was attended by the Minister of Electricity and local officials.

The Karbala project is the first of its kind in Iraq and currently produces 22 megawatts of power, with capacity expected to rise to 75 megawatts within two months. Officials praised the efforts of the Ministry of Electricity and the local government of Karbala, noting the governorate’s growing role as a hub for service and development initiatives.

Al-Sudani praised the Ministry of Electricity and the Karbala local government for their role in delivering the project. He noted that Karbala is becoming a model for service and development achievements across the country.

The Prime Minister underlined that solar energy is now a strategic priority for Iraq, both today and in the years ahead. Stating future housing projects, including those for the educational sector, will be equipped with solar power systems.

The government is also moving forward with a wider renewable energy strategy. An agreement with France’s TotalEnergies has already enabled the first delivery of solar electricity to the national grid. Additional projects are expected to launch soon as part of efforts to cut carbon emissions and reduce environmental damage caused by outdated production methods.

The successful launch in Karbala sets the stage for wider renewable projects designed to transform Iraq’s energy landscape, while helping cut carbon emissions and reduce environmental damage from outdated production methods.