Iraq has started work on its first major clean energy facility after officials confirmed progress on a new Iraq waste-to-energy plant in Baghdad. The project aims to convert garbage into electricity while reducing pressure on landfills and waste sites.
Authorities said a Chinese company has already started soil testing at the project location in the Nahrawan area, southeast of Baghdad. Officials described the project as a major step toward cleaner energy production in Iraq.
The new plant will produce up to 100 megawatts of electricity after completion. It will also process nearly 3,000 tons of waste every day. Iraqi officials believe the project can support both energy production and environmental protection.
The government launched the project as part of a broader strategy to diversify energy sources. Iraq still depends heavily on traditional fuel for electricity generation. Officials now want to expand renewable and environmentally friendly energy projects across the country.
Baghdad mayoralty spokesperson Uday al-Jundil said the project represents an important improvement in Iraq’s clean energy sector. He noted that several government institutions worked together to move the project forward.
The National Investment Commission coordinated with the Ministry of Electricity, the Ministry of Environment, and the Baghdad Mayoralty. Together, they approved the investment project and supervised its launch.
Iraq awarded the construction contract to a Chinese company specializing in environmental and energy projects. Reports estimate the project value at nearly $500 million.
Iraqi Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel previously explained how the facility will operate. Waste collection trucks will transport garbage to the site daily. Specialized systems will then burn the waste at high temperatures.
The heat will produce steam to power electricity-generating turbines. Officials expect the system to improve waste management while supplying electricity to the national grid.
Energy experts believe the Iraq waste-to-energy plant could reduce environmental pollution in Baghdad. Iraq continues facing major waste disposal problems because of population growth and limited recycling systems.
The government also hopes the project will attract more investment in renewable energy technologies. Officials may expand similar projects to other provinces in the future if the Baghdad facility succeeds.
Iraq continues searching for long-term solutions to electricity shortages and environmental challenges. Clean energy projects have become increasingly important in the country’s development plans.
The launch of the Iraq waste-to-energy plant marks an important step toward sustainable energy production and modern waste management in Iraq.