Iraq is the second-largest oil producer in the Middle East, behind Saudi Arabia. To address its chronic electricity deficits, the country is undertaking its largest-ever generation upgrade project – an initiative spearheaded by Shanghai Electric. The initiative is expected to improve the efficiency of power plants in multiple governorates, with the Karbala plant now being built on-site. As a result, this facility will help Iraq increase their energy independence and lessen their dependence on imported natural gas.
The acute electricity shortages that Iraq has suffered for more than 30 years severely hamper Iraqis’ daily life and economic development. The new project, which includes the Karbala facility, aims to address these issues. The key components needed for the facility, including the domes and towers, have recently begun arriving on site. These big structures such as heat recovery steam generators and direct air-cooled condensers are significant steps in the construction process.
Once the Karbala facility is fully operational, it will produce 5 billion more kWh of power annually. Even better, this jump in output won’t take any more fuel to accomplish. This advancement will both better leverage Iraq’s electricity infrastructure and reduce the cost of the fuel used to generate Iraq’s power.
Project Scope and Objectives
The expansion project includes governorates of Najaf, Karbala, and Babylon, as well as Al-Qadisiyyah. To fully implement Chinese equipment and standards, this project will serve as one of Iraq’s first fully combined-cycle upgrades. Core systems for the expansion have been engineered and constructed in China, showcasing the collaborative efforts between Chinese and Iraqi teams.
The Najaf power plant is still in expansion. Secondly, it will capture the high-temperature exhaust from today’s commercially available gas turbines to improve efficiency. This project deploys combined-cycle technology. It can massively increase the energy produced per unit resource consumed.
“The pressing need for energy security and development in Iraq is clear. We are honoured that our efficient combined-cycle technology is recognised as instrumental in modernising this critical infrastructure. This project exemplifies our commitment to supporting the energy security and green development of Belt and Road countries through technological innovation.” – Shanghai Electric spokesperson
Government Support and Expectations
Iraqi Electricity Minister Ziad Ali Fadel has emphasized the critical role of this initiative in shaking up day-to-day operations to provide power needed to rebuild Iraq. He stressed that once completed and in operation, it will dramatically reduce Iraq’s dependency on imported natural gas. This amendment will result in a more cost-effective electricity generation.
Shanghai Electric’s close collaboration with local authorities has been pivotal in ensuring construction proceeds at a rapid pace. The joint efforts of Chinese and Iraqi teams are critical to successfully modernizing these power plants, which should significantly address Iraq’s persistent power shortages.
In a press release about the project, Minister Fadel said he was hopeful the project would reshape the country’s energy landscape. He underscored the importance of improving Iraq’s electrical infrastructure as fundamental to promoting long-term economic development and stability.