Iraq signs power deals to add over 60GW capacity

BAGHDAD, Iraq (MNTV) — Iraq has signed a series of strategic agreements with international energy companies to develop more than 60 gigawatts of new electricity generation capacity, as part of a broad push to overhaul the country’s power sector.

Speaking at the 11th Iraq Energy Exhibition and Conference in Baghdad, Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel said the power sector has been a central government priority over the past three years, with an integrated strategy focused on increasing output and improving system efficiency.

The plan includes rehabilitating existing power stations, launching new investment-backed projects with a combined capacity of around 15 gigawatts, and constructing new power plants totalling 48 gigawatts through agreements with global firms. The projects will largely rely on domestically available fuel sources, Fadel said.

He added that previously stalled combined-cycle power projects have now been completed, allowing Iraq to generate additional electricity without increasing fuel consumption, significantly improving operational efficiency.

Beyond generation, the government is upgrading electricity transmission networks, advancing regional grid interconnection initiatives and expanding solar power projects across several provinces to diversify energy sources.

Outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani said Iraq is also in talks with international companies to invest in capturing and utilizing associated and free gas from oil fields to support power generation. 

He revealed plans to establish a permanent gas platform to secure long-term supply, enabling imports in the near term and potential exports in the future.

Iraq is simultaneously accelerating its transition to renewable energy, with large-scale solar projects and distributed systems planned for Baghdad and other provinces. A nationwide rollout covering districts and sub-districts is expected to begin by the summer, officials said.