In the scorching heat of the Iraqi summer, farmers like Abdallah Al-Ali are increasingly turning to solar energy to power their irrigation systems. This shift comes in response to the unreliable electricity supply from the national grid, which has struggled to meet demand since the 2003 US-led invasion that destabilized the country. Despite being a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and a leading oil producer, Iraq’s energy infrastructure has been plagued by under-investment and mismanagement, leaving many citizens to fend for themselves.
Al-Ali’s experience is emblematic of a broader trend among farmers in Nineveh province, where the summer temperatures often exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104°F). Previously burdened by a monthly electricity bill of nearly one million Iraqi dinars (approximately $764), Al-Ali’s switch to solar has dramatically reduced his costs to just 80,000 dinars. He emphasizes the reliability of solar power, stating, “Farmers are turning to solar to reduce their bills and lower the load on water pumps. The electricity from solar is stable.”
The Iraqi government recognizes the potential of solar energy to bridge the gap between supply and demand, with plans to install 12 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2030. This initiative includes the development of a 1-gigawatt solar plant in Basra, set to come online this year. However, the current energy landscape remains challenging, with peak summer demand projected to reach 55 gigawatts by 2025, while supply is expected to hover around 27 gigawatts.
The shift to solar energy is not limited to farmers. Urban residents are also embracing this technology, utilizing rooftop panels to meet their household energy needs. Hassan Taher, an agricultural engineer from Mosul, shares his positive experience, noting that his solar panels have significantly lowered his energy bills and even helped to cool his home. This sentiment is echoed by Mohammed Al-Qattan, who runs Mosul Solar, a company that has seen a surge in demand for solar installations, particularly from rural communities.
Despite the initial investment required for solar panel systems, which can range from 5 to 10 million Iraqi dinars, many users report recouping their costs within one to three years. The average system, typically around 5 to 6 kilowatts, comes with a 15-year warranty, offering a long-term solution to energy challenges. Moreover, solar systems eliminate the need for costly diesel generators, which contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
In urban areas, many households previously relied on generator subscriptions, costing between 50,000 and 100,000 dinars per month. Al-Qattan points out that switching to solar can lead to cost recovery within two years, with systems lasting up to 30 years. The off-grid nature of these solar installations allows users to become nearly self-sufficient, paying only for nighttime use of the national grid.
Government initiatives have also emerged to support the adoption of solar energy. The Central Bank of Iraq has introduced low-interest loans for citizens purchasing solar panels, although many, like Al-Ali, have opted to invest in solar without relying on government assistance. Al-Ali’s independence reflects a growing sentiment among farmers who are taking charge of their energy needs.
The transition to solar energy in Iraq highlights a significant shift in how citizens are addressing their energy challenges. As more individuals and businesses embrace this sustainable solution, the potential for solar power to transform the energy landscape in Iraq becomes increasingly evident. With ongoing support from both the government and the private sector, the future of solar energy in Iraq looks promising, offering a pathway to greater energy independence and sustainability.