The Iraq-Jordan power interconnection project is moving into its final phase, according to local officials in western Al-Anbar province. Authorities expect the transmission line between Al-Rutba and Al-Qaim to finish within three months. A senior official confirmed steady progress and described the work as a major step for regional electricity supply. The Iraq-Jordan power interconnection appears set to reshape power flow in western Iraq.
Al-Rutba District Commissioner Imad Al-Dulaimi said the area already receives electricity from Jordan through a 132-kilovolt line. That supply has continued without major interruption for nearly three years. The upgrade will raise capacity to 400 kilovolts and extend coverage toward Al-Qaim. Officials expect the first phase to add about 200 megawatts to Iraq’s national grid through the Electricity Ministry’s control system.
Al-Anbar province still faces a wide gap between supply and demand. Officials report current electricity delivery of around 600 to 650 megawatts. Demand, however, reaches between 2,700 and 3,000 megawatts during peak periods. Authorities continue to push broader reforms alongside the Iraq-Jordan power interconnection, including plans to connect with Gulf electricity networks. They also support new domestic generation projects such as the planned Al-Anbar thermal power station.
Energy challenges remain closely tied to import dependence. Iraq continues to rely heavily on imported electricity and gas from Iran, especially during summer months. However, reduced imports and policy changes have increased pressure on the system. Officials recently linked part of the strain to the removal of a U.S. sanctions waiver that previously allowed energy purchases.
Electricity Minister Ali Saad Waheeb ordered the creation of an emergency operations room this month. He responded to warnings about lower domestic gas output and reduced external supply. Authorities now prepare for tighter conditions during the summer of 2026. The Iraq-Jordan power interconnection remains one of the key projects aimed at stabilizing western grid performance.