Premier Opens 1st Solar Power Plant in Karbala

Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani inaugurated, via videoconference, the first phase of the Karbala Solar Power Plant, Iraq's first project of its kind, in the presence of the Minister of Electricity.

Al-Sudani praised the efforts of the Ministry of Electricity and local authorities in Karbala for completing the project, highlighting the governor's role in coordinating with ministries and service sectors. He described Karbala as a gateway for service and development achievements.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed that solar energy is a strategic choice for Iraq, stressing the need to equip upcoming housing units - including those allocated to teachers - with solar systems. He noted that agreements are underway with TotalEnergies of France, alongside the completion of work by the company implementing the Karbala plant [Albilal Group], which is the first private firm to supply solar power to the national grid.

The Karbala plant has begun producing 22 MW of electricity and is expected to reach 75 MW within two months. Al-Sudani confirmed that additional renewable, clean, and sustainable energy projects are planned, aligning with Iraq's strategy to cut carbon emissions and mitigate environmental impacts caused by outdated production methods.