Amid ongoing regional instability and volatility in oil and gas markets, Iraq’s power sector is under increasing pressure—highlighting the urgent need for reliable, domestic energy solutions. Solar is rapidly emerging not only as a cost-effective option, but as a critical pillar for energy security, system resilience, and long-term stability.
This MESIA webinar brings together leading experts from across the solar and energy value chain to explore Iraq’s evolving solar landscape—from market drivers and regulatory challenges to technology choices and execution realities. The discussion will provide practical insights into what is working today, what remains constrained, and what must change to unlock scale in the near future.
Key Discussion Points
Market Drivers & Demand Reality:
Iraq’s widening supply-demand gap and summer peak pressures
The role of solar in addressing both generation shortfalls and reliability issues
Energy security as a key driver amid disrupted fuel supply
Tariffs, Grid & Regulation
Grid bottlenecks and readiness for solar integration
Impact of tariffs on project viability, especially for C&I solar
Regulatory clarity and requirements for bankability
Technology & Project Design
Trackers vs fixed-tilt: performance vs complexity trade-offs
Designing for Iraq’s climate and grid conditions
Aligning solar output with demand and system needs
Execution & Scaling Challenges
Engineering and O&M realities in harsh desert environments
Importance of quality execution beyond LCOE
Common pitfalls and lessons from similar markets
Unlocking Scale
Key enablers for accelerating solar deployment in the next 12–24 months
Role of policy, grid upgrades, and private sector participation
Balancing local capacity with international expertise
Speakers
- Ahmed Tabaqchali – Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council – Iraq Initiative
- Ali Shams – Business Development Director, Array Technologies
- Jessica Obeid – Founding Partner of New Energy Consult
- Dr. Mustafa Ibrahim Salim – Renewable Energy Lecturer and projects manager, Aliraqia University, Globaltek iq, DNB Waste Consultancy, and Pinezone Consultancy
- Moderator: Joe Steveni – Analyst, Solar PV & BESS, S&P Global