Iraq Faces 39,000 Megawatt Electricity Supply Deficit

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq’s daily electricity deficit has reached approximately 39,000 megawatts as national production remains between 16,000 and 17,000 megawatts. Demand during the summer months approaches 55,000 megawatts, creating a significant gap in supply. The shortfall is attributed to fuel shortages at power plants and a decline in external supply sources. Current production levels remain heavily dependent on the import of approximately 20 million cubic meters of natural gas from Iran daily. Additional challenges include the postponement of an Excelerate Energy liquefied natural gas project until 2027 and delays in an electrical interconnection project with Gulf countries. Furthermore, an electricity transmission line with Turkey remains suspended due to outstanding debt issues.