Iraq bratislava energy storage policy

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 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.

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.

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 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.

Where does Iraq import gas from?

Iraq now relies on imports from Iran to meet increasing demand. The inability to utilise its gas riches means that the country's gas deficit has grown, and as oil production has soared, so has the amount of associated gas produced alongside.