Basra to host Iraq’s largest privately built gas power station

Shafaq News – Baghdad

Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity signed on Thursday a contract
to construct the Al-Faw gas-fired power plant in Basra.

The project—implemented by US firm General Electric (GE) and
described by the ministry as the largest private power investment project in
southern Iraq’s energy sector —will operate under a “Take and Pay” model,
ensuring the government pays only for electricity received.

According to the ministry, the 3,000-megawatt combined-cycle
plant will feature four gas turbines and two steam units, using advanced
seawater desalination technology for its operations.

The contract was signed between the General Company for
Electricity Production in the Southern Region and Advanced Technology Systems
Company, which will also supply the gas required for the facility—a shift from
earlier deals that left fuel provision to the state.

Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel said Al-Faw was chosen
for its strategic location near the Grand Faw Port and the new interconnection
line with Kuwait (Wafra–Faw), positioning Basra as a regional energy hub.

“Basra is undergoing a major transformation in the
electricity sector,” Fadel said, noting that the province’s 15 operating power
stations now generate about 7,000 megawatts, exceeding local demand of 5,000
megawatts, with the surplus transmitted to neighboring provinces via new 400 kV
lines.

He also highlighted ongoing projects, including the “Basra
Sun” solar plant (1,000 megawatts), upgrades at Hartha power station, and other
private investment initiatives. 

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