Iraq announces initiation of new power line to import electricity from Turkey
Date
7/21/2024 10:02:43 AM
(MENAFN) On Sunday, Iraq announced a significant development in its efforts to address chronic power outages by inaugurating a new power line that will import electricity from Turkey. This 115-kilometer (71-mile) line, which connects to the Kisik power plant located west of Mosul, is set to supply 300 megawatts of electricity to Iraq’s northern provinces, including Nineveh, Salah Al-Din, and Kirkuk. The initiative is part of Iraq's broader strategy to diversify its energy sources and mitigate persistent power shortages.
According to a statement from the prime minister's office, the new power line is viewed as a strategic move to enhance Iraq's connectivity with neighboring countries and improve its energy infrastructure. Prime Minister Mohamed Shia Al-Sudani emphasized the importance of this development in Iraq's efforts to secure a more reliable and diversified energy supply.
Ahmed Moussa, spokesperson for the electricity ministry, confirmed that the new power line commenced operations on Sunday. This development comes at a crucial time, as Iraq's infrastructure has been severely impacted by decades of conflict, leading to frequent power outages, especially during the scorching summer months when temperatures can soar to 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit). Many Iraqi households experience only a few hours of electricity per day and often rely on private generators to power essential appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners.
Despite possessing vast oil reserves, Iraq has been heavily dependent on energy imports, particularly from neighboring Iran, which has frequently reduced its supply. In light of this, Prime Minister Sudani has highlighted the necessity for Iraq to diversify its energy sources to alleviate the ongoing power crises. As part of these efforts, Baghdad has been exploring alternative energy imports, including options from Gulf countries, to reduce its reliance on Iranian gas.
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