Electricity in Iraq in 2023
In 2023, Iraq's electricity consumption remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, which make up an overwhelming 97% of the total electricity generated, with gas accounting for nearly 57% of that figure. This reliance translates to substantial environmental concerns due to the high emissions associated with fossil energy. Conversely, low-carbon energy sources like hydroelectric and solar power contribute a mere 1.15% to the electricity mix, showing that Iraq's transition towards clean energy is still in its infancy. Additionally, a small portion of Iraq's electricity, around 2%, is met through net imports.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Iraq?
Electricity consumption in Iraq is growing, as evidenced by an increase from 3,118 kWh per person in 2022 to 3,404 kWh per person in 2023. This growth of 286 kWh per person indicates a positive upward trend in overall electricity consumption, reflecting increased demand that requires addressing with sustainable solutions. However, the generation of low-carbon electricity is struggling; the current output sits at 39 kWh per person, which is substantially below the previous high in 2006 of 213 kWh per person. This decline of 174 kWh per person underscores the urgent need for Iraq to bolster its low-carbon electricity generation efforts to catch up with the rest of the growing electricity sector.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Iraq should consider adopting solar and nuclear power, drawing inspiration from regions that have successfully integrated these sources into their energy portfolios. For instance, California and Lebanon generate 31% of their electricity from solar power, showcasing a viable path to harnessing abundant sunlight. On the nuclear front, countries like France and Slovakia are noteworthy, with nuclear power comprising nearly two-thirds of their electricity generation. By investing in these clean and sustainable energy sources, Iraq could significantly reduce its dependency on fossil fuels, curb pollution, and meet rising electricity demands.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Iraq has been marked by fluctuations, especially in its hydroelectric sector. Over the past decades, hydro power has experienced both increases and declines, with notable growth occurring in the early 1990s and various years thereafter, but also frequent reductions in output, particularly negative changes in 1991, 2008, and years leading up to 2023. Such inconsistency in hydroelectric output makes it essential for Iraq to diversify its low-carbon energy mix by investing more in solar and nuclear options, which provide more stable and predictable sources of clean energy. The initial, albeit small, introduction of solar power in 2020 with steady but not revolutionary progress suggests potential for growth, further advocating the need to enhance these new avenues, driving a substantial low-carbon future for Iraq’s electricity sector.
