Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy company Masdar will build solar power plants in multiple governorates across Iraq
These plants will be built in the regions of Maysan, Dhi Qar, Anbar and Kirkuk, according to news organisation IraqiNews.com. Media reported that the Iraqi Minister of Electricity, Ziyad Ali Fadel, met with a delegation from Masdar on Monday.
The government plans to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on gas and fossil fuels to address environmental pollution and global warming, Fadel was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity. According to the statement, the Electricity Minister emphasised the value of collaborations with the UAE, showing that the Iraqi government is serious about working on projects with Masdar Company, a major player in the area and globally.
Fadel looked into the possibilities of finding locations in Iraq where renewable energy projects might be carried out, since they were crucial for the Iraqi economy. Worldwide, Masdar produces utility-scale renewable energy projects. It implements a clever first-mover strategy for green hydrogen and promotes innovation in clean technology. Masdar also offers industry venues and information to encourage future development in the larger clean technology and renewable energy sectors.
Iraq is looking to expand its electricity grid, and has recently invested in a 2,000MW power plant located in Basra. The electricity-poor country is in talks with GCC states to advance electricity projects, and last month, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein called on Gulf companies to invest in Iraqi gas and petrochemical sectors as well.
