Electricity in Iraq in 2023
In 2023, the landscape of electricity consumption in Iraq is predominantly dominated by fossil fuels, comprising almost all of the total consumption at nearly 97%. The largest share within this category comes from gas, which accounts for more than half of the electricity production. Despite a minor contribution from net imports (around 2%), clean energy sources, including low-carbon technologies, contribute a mere 1% to the electricity mix. This indicates a significant reliance on fossil fuels and highlights the pressing need for a shift towards more sustainable and clean energy sources to address the negative environmental impacts associated with high fossil fuel usage, such as air pollution and climate change.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Iraq?
The electricity consumption per person in Iraq has seen growth recently, increasing from a historic record of 3,118 kWh in 2022 to 3,404 kWh in 2023. This rise by 286 kWh per person signifies a positive trend in the generation and availability of electricity. However, this growth in total electricity consumption contrasts sharply with the trajectory of low-carbon electricity, which has fallen significantly from its previous high in 2006 of 213 kWh per person to just 39 kWh per person in 2023. This decline of 174 kWh per person underlines a concerning reduction in low-carbon electricity adoption over the years, stressing the urgent need to enhance sustainable energy generation to support future electricity demands.
Suggestions
Iraq can elevate its low-carbon electricity generation by taking cues from other regions that have successfully integrated solar and wind energy, alongside nuclear power. Countries like France and Slovakia, which generate a substantial portion of their electricity from nuclear power—70% and 66%, respectively—underscore the potential of nuclear energy in providing consistent and substantial energy with low environmental impact. Moreover, embracing solar energy, as demonstrated by Nevada, with a 33% contribution, and Lebanon, with 31%, could drive substantial growth in Iraq’s clean electricity portfolio. By capitalizing on the natural conditions favorable for solar energy and integrating reliable nuclear power, Iraq can significantly reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and pave the way for a sustainable energy future.
History
Historically, Iraq's journey with low-carbon electricity, primarily through hydroelectric power, has been inconsistent, with brief periods of growth overshadowed by declines. Noteworthy advances were seen in 1990 and 2005, where increases were measured at 2 TWh and 5.5 TWh, respectively. However, these periods of growth have been followed by numerous setbacks, as evidenced in 1991, 2008, and 2011, where reductions of -1.7, -2.3, and -1.4 TWh were recorded. More recently, in 2020, there was a slight advancement with solar energy beginning to contribute, marking a small but critical start towards diversification of low-carbon technologies. Unfortunately, hydroelectric power has continued to decline, with 2023 recording a decrease of -1.3 TWh. These oscillations indicate challenges but also highlight opportunities to aggressively pursue stable, sustainable energy sources beyond hydroelectric power. By learning from the successful deployment of solar and nuclear energy in other parts of the world, Iraq can rewrite its energy history toward a more resilient and green future.
