Iraq is exploring alternatives to Iranian gas, emphasizing the need to diversify energy sources due to U.S. sanctions. Efforts include seeking gas from Qatar and establishing LNG terminals. The government aims for energy self-sufficiency, amid ongoing electricity shortages affecting the population.
Iraq is actively seeking alternatives to its reliance on Iranian gas imports, including potential sources from the Gulf area. A government official stated this shift comes in response to the U.S. administration’s decision to end a sanctions waiver that permitted Iraq to purchase electricity from Iran, although gas imports remain unaffected for now. Currently, Iranian gas and electricity supply meet a third of Iraq’s energy needs.
Saad Jassem from Iraq’s electricity ministry indicated the government’s intent to diversify import sources, emphasizing, “Previously, we only had imports from Iran, but there are government directives and a political will to rely on multiple sources of imports.” Meanwhile, the director of the ministry’s fuel department clarified that they have not yet halted Iranian gas imports. A U.S. diplomat highlighted the urgency for Iraq to stop all gas purchases from Iran.
Iraq’s extensive oil resources have not alleviated its energy challenges, worsened by infrastructure issues and frequent power outages. Jassem discussed the preparations for potential gas supply interruptions, reassuring that alternatives are in place. Qatar, recognized as the largest natural gas producer in the region, is in discussions to provide gas to Iraq at preferential rates.
The establishment of two floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals in Khor al-Zubair aims to enhance Iraq’s energy self-sufficiency. These facilities are projected to process between 14 to 19 million cubic meters of gas daily, with an option for a third terminal that could raise this capacity significantly. Jassem emphasized the critical nature of energy for Iraqi citizens, noting that losing gas supplies would severely impact electricity availability.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s administration aims to eliminate gas flaring in oil fields by 2028, redirecting it to power generation to boost self-sufficiency further. Despite renewed gas import agreements with Iran, deliveries have fallen short of expectations, highlighting ongoing electricity shortages that provoke public unrest, especially during hot summer months.
Iraq is striving to reduce its dependency on Iranian gas amidst shifting geopolitical tensions and internal energy demands. Active efforts include diversifying gas sources from Qatar and potentially Turkmenistan, while simultaneously investing in LNG infrastructure. The government’s actions aim to address profound electricity shortages, ensuring energy security for its population amid infrastructural and economic challenges.
Original Source: www.newstopicnews.com
