Renewable energies in Iraq: Bringing experts, policy makers and private sector together to leverage the potential of solar power for a greener future

 

The Iraqi context

Iraq has one of the highest solar irradiation levels in the world, according to a study conducted by the trade association of the German solar energy industry on behalf of GIZ in 2023. The country’s abundant sunlight provides the basis for solar energy production. This would help meet the country’s growing energy needs, especially at a time when the impacts of climate change are becoming more and more obvious, urging governments to move away from fossil fuels. At the same time, renewable energies offer great potential for job creation in the fields of photovoltaic installation and maintenance.

Our approach

GIZ has supported a holistic approach to photovoltaic (PV), especially with regard to private sector development:

  • Data analyses: In 2021, GIZ, together with governmental partners, identified the PV sector as a key area for job creation. Based on that, the trade association of the German solar energy industry conducted a survey among key stakeholders to suggest interventions to fully leverage the PV sector’s potential in sustainable job creation. In Anbar, we are currently carrying out a study on the systematic use of renewable energy sources for supplying public buildings. In particular, we are looking at on-grid, grid-connected and off-grid solar installations. Lastly, a study on the demand for and supply of Green Finance – for example, loans for renewable energy investments such as PV panels for households and businesses – will be kicked off soon.
  • Technical know-how: We supported the establishment of three PV training centers in Baghdad, Basrah and Sulaymaniyah with equipment and capacity development for trainers who now train future experts in PV installation and maintenance. GIZ has also offered several courses to train qualified professionals throughout the country. Furthermore, we worked with MSMEs to assess their needs and identify suitable renewable energy solutions.
  • Business support: We also supported Chambers of Commerce to build their PV-related expertise. Thus, they can develop targeted support offers for their members when it comes to supporting business startups, especially in developing business models, and representing the interests of the PV sector to the government.
  • Business integrity: With support from the OECD, we promoted business integrity in the electricity sector. Surveys, public-private dialogues and other formats were designed to include various stakeholder perspectives in policy processes relating to the electricity sector.

The University of Sulaimani, which we supported in setting up one of the PV training centers, hosted a Renewable Energy Conference to bring together technical experts, policy makers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders. In various exchange and networking sessions participants shared their experiences and skills to support increasing efforts to leverage the potential of solar power in Iraq.