QatarEnergy and TotalEnergies Launch Solar Project in Iraq

• QatarEnergy and TotalEnergies join forces to launch a groundbreaking 1.25 GWp solar project in Iraq, promising clean energy for 350,000 homes by 2027.

QatarEnergy and TotalEnergies have entered into an agreement to develop a 1.25 GWp solar project in Iraq, as part of TotalEnergies' Gas Growth Integrated Project (GGIP). QatarEnergy will acquire a 50% stake in the solar complex, subject to regulatory approval, while TotalEnergies will retain the remaining interest. The project, located in Iraq's Basra region, will utilize 2 million bifacial solar panels and is expected to be developed in phases for commissioning between 2025 and 2027.

Once operational, the solar facility will have the capacity to power approximately 350,000 homes in Basra. QatarEnergy's CEO, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and acknowledged the Iraqi government's trust in advancing renewable energy initiatives. Notably, QatarEnergy also holds a 25% stake in the broader GGIP, while TotalEnergies leads with 45%, and Iraq’s Basra Oil Company owns the remaining 30%.

What are the key details of QatarEnergy and TotalEnergies' solar project in Iraq?

Here are the key details of the QatarEnergy and TotalEnergies solar project in Iraq:

• Project Scale: The solar project is designed to have a generation capacity of 1.25 gigawatt peak (GWp), making it a significant addition to Iraq's renewable energy infrastructure.
• Partnership Structure: QatarEnergy is set to acquire a 50% stake in the project, while TotalEnergies will maintain a 50% share. This joint venture signifies a notable collaboration between the two companies in advancing solar energy solutions.
• Regulatory Approval: The acquisition of the stake by QatarEnergy is contingent upon receiving necessary regulatory approvals from the Iraqi government, which is a standard procedure for foreign investments in the energy sector.
• Location: The project will be based in the Basra region of Iraq, an area that is strategically significant due to its existing oil infrastructure and potential for renewable energy development.
• Technology Utilization: The solar complex will employ approximately 2 million bifacial solar panels, which are known for their efficiency in harnessing solar energy from both sides, thus maximizing energy production.
• Phased Development: The construction of the solar facility is planned to occur in phases, with commissioning expected to take place between 2025 and 2027. This phased approach may help mitigate risks and manage costs effectively.
• Energy Output: Once fully operational, the solar facility is estimated to provide clean electricity to around 350,000 homes in Basra, contributing to the region’s energy security and sustainability.
• Complementary Ventures: QatarEnergy's involvement in this project is part of its broader commitment to the Gas Growth Integrated Project (GGIP), where it holds a 25% stake. TotalEnergies holds a leading 45% stake, while Iraq’s Basra Oil Company accounts for the remaining 30%, underscoring the collaborative effort in enhancing renewable energy alongside traditional hydrocarbon activities.
• Strategic Importance: This project aligns with global trends towards renewable energy and Iraq’s goal to diversify its energy mix, reduce carbon emissions, and invest in sustainable technologies.
• Statements from Leadership: Both QatarEnergy’s CEO, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, and TotalEnergies executives have expressed optimism about the project, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in achieving national and international energy transition goals.

These points illustrate the ambitious nature of the solar initiative and its potential impact on Iraq’s energy landscape, as well as the collaboration between international energy firms to invest in renewable solutions.