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Renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
Iraq
Rising temperatures stand out as one of the most prominent direct impacts that Iraq faces due to climate change. During the long summer, temperatures often soar beyond boiling, exacerbating the challenges in the energy sector. A stifling crisis looms over the industry, and continuous power outages have become a recurring daily scene. This situation necessitates the exploration of solutions and the search for alternative sources of electrical energy in Iraq.
Amidst the climate impacts and escalating demand, the need for innovative solutions has become more urgent than ever. Despite possessing vast hydrocarbon reserves, In particular, Iraq is the fifth-largest proven reserve of crude oil in the world and the twelfth largest in terms of natural gas reserves. In particular, the country is grappling with a deepening electricity crisis that has affected the daily lives of its citizens. They are forced to rely on expensive diesel generators to cover the shortage of electrical power. As demand for electricity continues to rise, the country faces the challenge of meeting energy needs while navigating a landscape marred by infrastructure gaps, security, and geopolitical complexities. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
The great pressures on the energy sector have left many areas of the country in darkness for continuous hours, up to two hours a day, with more than twenty hours of electrical power outages. This persistent problem not only disrupts citizens’ daily lives but has also hindered economic growth and development, increasing unemployment among youth. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
In an attempt to address the electricity crisis related to the economy, public health, and other areas of life, the Green Bank for Sustainable Development Iraq was announced. This announcement took place during Iraq’s participation in the COP 28 climate conference held in the Emirates in 2023. The initiative is based on the guiding principles of green economy policies aimed at bridging technological differences between developed and developing countries without discrimination. Additionally, it establishes an intergovernmental process within the framework of the General Assembly to prepare options for a strategy for financing sustainable development. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
It is noteworthy that the Green Bank is considered the first bank in the Middle East concerned with the green economy. It sets sustainable development goals within the Millennium Development Goals and aligns with the post-2015 development plan. The Fund supports sustainable projects with carbon returns through the global carbon trading market. It provides environmentally friendly green financial solutions and finances renewable energy projects and environmentally friendly initiatives that improve the quality of life. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
During his participation in the Conference of the Parties (COP 28), the Deputy Minister of Electricity in the Iraqi government, Adel Karim, stated, “The Ministry of Electricity has come a long way in terms of relying on solar energy. In the coming years, the country will obtain 12 megawatts and 500 watts of renewable electrical energy, i.e., PV.”
The Iraqi official added, “From the administrative side, contracts for 7 megawatts and 500 watts have been awarded, and 5 megawatts will be awarded within the coming months.” renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
The Deputy Minister pointed out that renewable energy, with the opportunities it offers, also faces its own crises, such as the abundance of light at times and its lack at other times, not to mention climate crises that may negatively affect the production of clean energy, such as dust storms and others. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
It was approved to establish a Damage and Loss Fund to finance the damage to which developing countries are exposed as a result of climate change, which was approved in the final statement of the COP 27 climate conference held in Sharm El-Sheikh. It was prepared by those in charge of the Fund, making it a historic achievement after 27 years of demands from developing countries.
Ziad Salam, a solar energy engineer from Bilad UTU Company, which specializes in renewable energy solutions, describes the motivation to enter the Iraqi market for solar panels, despite the challenges, as a personal interest rather than an investment stemming from a passion for environmentally friendly technologies—especially since Iraq is witnessing a long summer with high temperatures. That is, the sunshine hours are higher, making it suitable for the technology and at a cost that is often reasonable. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
Salam said, “Although the challenges and opportunities are still great—the simplest of which is the high purchase cost of the system and the lack of controls for those qualified to work in this field, meaning that there is still chaos. However, the opportunities are diverse, the most important of which is the energy crisis in Iraq and the instability of the government’s supply of electricity.” renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
With regard to affordability and accessibility, there are plans to make solar energy solutions accessible to a wide range of consumers in Iraq, the most important of which is the possibility of Iraqi individual income. According to Salam, the first meals were based on people with high potential, but currently there are solutions for installments. There is cooperation with the Aqsati platform of the Rafidain Governmental Bank to simplify the costs related to purchasing and installing solar panels. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
Ziad continues to say that they have partnerships and cooperation with government agencies such as the Ministry of Electricity and Planning and the Central Bank by attending workshops and sessions to crystallize ideas—whether maturing renewable energy laws or pushing to move the Central Bank’s initiative for renewable energy loans, and there is cooperation with non-governmental organizations such as IOM, GIZ.
Given the rapidly developing technology in the solar energy sector, companies specialized in renewable energy are adapting to market fluctuations, as dollar prices are greatly affected, so they are constantly trying to diversify funding sources to provide advanced solutions to the Iraqi market. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
According to specialists, fluctuations in weather conditions affect the operation of solar panels in the country, but the effect is limited compared to the last five years—especially since companies advise users to continue cleaning the panels to avoid the accumulation of deposits such as dust and smoke.
Years of political corruption, coupled with the decline in crude oil prices from 2014 until late 2021, led to the continuation of the electrical energy crisis, and Iraq is spending billions to import gas to feed power plants, bringing the quantities it imports from Iran alone to more than one billion cubic feet. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
There are many success stories that highlight the positive impact of solar panels on local communities, especially during the summer and complete power outages. Consumers of the solar panel system can enjoy a continuous flow of electrical energy in their homes, allowing them to carry out their work smoothly. This creates a seamless existence for this type of energy-conserving technology.
Salam Fateh, an environmental expert specializing in renewable energy affairs, stated that their organization is keen on promoting renewable energy in Iraq. The adoption of solar panels in the country has played a crucial role in advancing renewable energy goals by reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The widespread use of solar panels has helped decrease Iraq’s reliance on traditional fossil fuels, diversifying energy sources, and reducing the carbon footprint by harnessing the abundant sunlight in Iraq, especially in areas with limited access to the traditional energy grid. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
“Solar energy is a clean and sustainable alternative, helping Iraq move towards a more environmentally friendly energy landscape,” Salam describes. “By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, we are contributing to the global fight against climate change and promoting a healthier environment for current and future generations.”
Iraq currently produces about 24,000 megawatts but needs around 37,000, leading to frequent power outages, especially during the summer with a significant rise in temperatures. Environmental organizations in Iraq have made significant efforts to raise awareness and dispel common misconceptions about solar energy. By providing accurate information about the benefits, affordability, and reliability of solar panels—contrary to the previously held belief that it is only for the wealthy—they aim to promote better understanding among local residents.
Modern solar technology is efficient and can provide a constant and reliable source of power, even in areas with different weather conditions. Switching to solar energy not only improves the overall quality of life but also creates local job opportunities to maintain and supervise solar infrastructure. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
“Our collaboration with local governments and businesses is a key aspect of our strategy,” said Riyad Mohamed of Green Climate. “We are actively engaged in dialogue with government officials to advocate for supportive policies and regulations that encourage the integration of solar solutions. In addition, we work closely with businesses to facilitate partnerships and investments in renewable energy projects. This collaborative approach helps create a sustainable ecosystem where all parties align towards the common goal of a greener, sustainable future for Iraq.”
“We believe that awareness is the first step towards a greener future through education and engagement,” he continues. “We collaborate with local schools, community centers, and businesses to reach a diverse audience.” renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
“According to experts, Iraq has a strong potential base for renewable energy, as it has high levels of solar radiation, economically viable wind speeds in some areas, and hot springs that could provide an opportunity for thermal energy development. Power generation from renewable energy sources would increase energy security in Iraq, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector, which represent nearly half of Iraq’s total emissions. This is due to its heavy reliance on fossil fuel-powered power plants and the extensive use of electricity generators.”
During the current climate conference, the experts participating in these meetings unanimously agreed that war, whether in Gaza or Ukraine, is one of the most important obstacles to implementing what is stated in the Paris Climate Agreement. It will be the main reason for the retreat of major countries, as their size and emissions differ from their pledges to reduce these emissions. The financing of the near-global war, in one way or another, will inevitably be at the expense of climate financing. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
This article was produced as part of the 2023 Climate Change Media Partnership Virtual Reporting Fellowship, a journalism fellowship organized by Internews’ Earth Journalism Network and the Stanley Center for Peace and Security. renewable energy solutions is a critical issue
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