Masdar to add 2GW of renewable power in blackout-hit Iraq
Abu Dhabi group eyes solar development in nation where outdated infrastructure struggles to meet demand
Masdar plans to build at least 2GW of solar PV capacity under a strategic agreement signed with Iraq.
The Abu Dhabi renewables group will build projects in oil-rich Iraq’s central and southern regions, helping it meet a goal to install 10GW of PV by 2025 and move towards a 25% renewable energy share.
Masdar, which is developing wind and solar projects globally as part of an expansion drive, said: “This agreement will define the path for the development of clean energy solutions that will drive growth in the Republic of Iraq and help the government meet its climate goals.”
One of the world’s largest oil producers, conflict-scarred Iraq has a major electricity problem, with ageing power infrastructure that’s unable to keep up with demand, leading to frequent blackouts in its major cities.
Reports earlier this month suggested that the nation is poised to restart its nuclear programme in response to a looming power crunch at the end of the decade.
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