First Unit of Iraq’s 1 GW Basra Solar Power Plant Begins Trial Operation

Image: Iraq Ministry of Electricity

Trial operation has begun for the first generating unit of the 1 GW Basra solar power plant in Iraq, marking a key milestone in the country’s efforts to scale up renewable energy deployment.

According to an update from the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity, 61 MW of capacity from the first of four planned 250 MW units has started operating. Output from the unit will be gradually increased until it reaches its full 250 MW capacity. Once fully operational, the first unit will be connected to the national grid through the New Rumaila and Suq al-Shuyukh transmission lines.

Large-Scale Solar Development in Basra

Located in the southeastern governorate of Basra Governorate, the solar plant will cover approximately 9,000 dunams (around 900 hectares) when fully completed. Full commissioning of the entire 1 GW project is expected by 2028.

Construction of the project began in July 2025 and is being led by TotalEnergies, which holds a 45% stake in the development. The remaining ownership is split between Basrah Oil Company with 30% and QatarEnergy with 25%.

According to TotalEnergies, the project is being divided into four 250 MW units to better match the capacity of the local grid and allow phased integration.

Supporting Iraq’s Renewable Energy Goals

Once fully operational, the Basra solar plant is expected to provide electricity to around 350,000 homes in the region and contribute to the Iraqi government’s goal of sourcing 12% of national energy demand from renewable sources by 2027.

International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reported that Iraq had just 42 MW of installed solar capacity by the end of 2024. The Basra project represents the country’s first gigawatt-scale solar development currently under construction.

Solar development in Iraq has begun to accelerate. In September, the first phase of a 300 MW solar project in Karbala Governorate entered operation. Earlier in June, US-based developer UGT Renewables signed an agreement with the Iraqi government to build a 3 GW solar project.

To further support solar adoption, Iraq’s customs authority recently reduced import duties on solar systems from 33% to 5%, a move intended to encourage broader deployment of solar technologies across the country.