Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, revealed on Tuesday that the Iraqi government is working on 15 solar energy projects that will increase the country’s electricity production by 5,720 megawatts.

Al-Sudani’s remarks took place during a cabinet meeting marking the second year after the formation of the current government, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

The meeting addressed the achievements accomplished by the government in different areas over the past two years.

With many large-scale projects aimed at boosting renewable energy capacity and lowering dependency on fossil fuels, Iraq is making notable progress in the development of its solar energy sector.

Major solar energy projects in Iraq include TotalEnergies solar plant in the southern Iraqi governorate of Basra. With a capacity of 1,000 megawatts, the project is part of a $27 billion integrated deal that includes oil and gas development.

Expected by 2025, the plant will provide electricity for approximately 350,000 homes and is considered Iraq’s first utility-scale solar project.

Additionally, the Iraqi government signed an agreement with Abu Dhabi’s Masdar to develop solar projects with a capacity of 2,000 megawatts in central and southern Iraq.

In order to provide the Iraqis with renewable energy options, the government has launched additional initiatives, such as a rooftop solar system that targets both government buildings and homes.

To promote the use of solar technology, the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) is providing the Iraqi citizens with interest-free loans and other financing choices.

Iraq’s determination to increase its solar energy capacity is a smart step toward sustainable energy solutions that may solve environmental issues and promote economic growth.