DUBAI, UAE - In a significant step toward strengthening Iraq’s energy sector, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani on Saturday announced new power projects that are set to add 4,000 megawatts to the national grid—without requiring additional fuel.

During a visit to the South Baghdad Gas Power Station, Sudani officially launched three major projects aimed at expanding the country’s electricity capacity. 

The first of these is a new combined cycle unit at the station, which will generate 125 megawatts by harnessing gas produced from existing power generation, reducing the need for further fuel.

Through Video Conference, the prime minister also kicked off the construction of two additional units at Mansuriyah Gas Station in Diyala province, with a capacity of 362 megawatts, and another unit at Akkas Gas Station in Anbar province, adding 125 megawatts. These projects are part of a broader initiative to optimize energy production and cut gas imports.

“This is a transformative step for Iraq's energy future,” Sudani said. “By utilizing advanced combined cycle technology, we are not only boosting electricity output but doing so efficiently, with no additional fuel consumption. This will significantly reduce our reliance on imported gas and help meet the growing energy needs of our people.”

The prime minister stressed that energy infrastructure is the backbone of Iraq’s economic development. His government has allocated substantial resources to modernize power generation, transmission, and distribution systems, while also making strides in capturing associated gas through major contracts, including those with Total and domestic initiatives.

Sudani also highlighted Iraq’s shift toward a sustainable energy future. He announced that the government is moving forward with a new economic model aimed at balancing the interests of the state and investors, and plans to partner with both local and international companies to deliver a 10,000-megawatt electricity production project.

“Renewable energy is central to Iraq’s future,” Sudani added, noting that the government is working to convert public buildings to solar power. Several leading international firms have submitted proposals for large-scale solar energy projects across Iraqi provinces, signaling a promising shift toward environmentally friendly power solutions.

The prime minister's initiatives mark a crucial move toward energy independence, efficiency, and sustainability, positioning Iraq to better serve its growing demand for electricity.