Iraq energy storage industry chain

Why is Iraq facing a major energy crisis?

Already in a fragile state, Iraq’s economy is today facing a major crisis resulting from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on global oil markets, underscoring the urgent need for reforms of the country’s energy sector.

Why is Iraq's energy system vulnerable?

However the capacity to capture and process this gas has not kept pace. The inability to utilise its gas riches means that the country's gas deficit has grown, and Iraq now relies on imports from Iran to meet increasing demand. This has introduced a number of vulnerabilities to Iraq’s energy system.

Should Iraq rely on state financing for energy projects?

There has scarcely been a more urgent time for Iraq to pursue crucial reforms in its energy sector to ensure that investment continues even when government revenues have been decimated by low oil prices. The alternative of continuing to rely on direct state financing of large projects only increases the risk that these projects are delayed.

How much oil does Iraq produce a day?

It also takes a detailed look at the country’s oil and gas sector, projecting that Iraq’s oil production will grow by 1.3 million barrels a day by 2030, becoming the world’s fourth-largest oil producer behind the United States, Saudi Arabia and Russia.

What are the challenges facing Iraqi oil production?

The increase in Iraqi oil production capacity over the last decade has been impressive, yet there are a number of challenges facing the sector going forward. One impeding barrier is the availability of water, as planned oil production will require a level of water production above what has been achieved so far.

How has war affected Iraq's power infrastructure?

Despite the extraordinary challenges of war in recent years, Iraq has made impressive gains, nearly doubling the country’s oil production over the past decade. But the turmoil has also undermined the country’s ability to maintain and invest in its power infrastructure.