Electricity Minister oversees smart grid transformation contracts for central and northern Iraq

Baghdad-INA
Electricity Minister Ziad Ali Fadel oversaw on Wednesday, the signing of contracts for smart grid transformation projects aimed at modernizing the electricity network in Iraq’s central and northern regions.
In his address at the signing ceremony, attended by the reporter from the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Fadel outlined a comprehensive plan for transitioning to a smart grid, emphasizing its role in fundamentally updating the electricity sector.
 
Fadel described the occasion as a pivotal moment for the advancement of Iraq’s electricity sector, affirming that the smart energy transition program has received direct backing from Prime Minister Muhammad Shia’ al-Sudani. This initiative is part of the government’s ambitious agenda to alleviate the longstanding hardships faced by the population over the past three decades.
 
The Minister elaborated that the ministry is initiating a well-structured plan for the smart grid transition, which is based on practical foundations for a radical update of the electricity sector. He noted that the plan includes the implementation of integrated smart meters that will provide accurate, real-time readings, allowing citizens to monitor their consumption in detail and preventing electricity theft or network violations, thus enhancing transparency and service quality.
 
Fadel added that the smart grid transformation will be accompanied by the conversion of overhead lines to underground systems, which is expected to significantly reduce power outages and energy losses while ensuring a stable supply.
 
He emphasized that electricity supply would be available 24/7, supported by a comprehensive maintenance program characterized by prompt fault detection and repair, ensuring the continuity of service. Furthermore, he confirmed that electricity prices will remain unchanged, with the government subsidizing 75% of residential consumption.
 
“Our goal is to improve service without increasing the burdens on citizens,” he stated, explaining that the strategic project will initially cover several provinces, benefiting hundreds of thousands of subscribers in Wasit, Anbar, Diyala, and Kirkuk, while promoting energy sustainability and improving the quality of life for citizens.
 
Fadel also mentioned that the ministry, with direct government support, is focused on alleviating the struggles of the Iraqi people concerning electricity issues by enhancing infrastructure and applying the latest global technologies.
 
The Minister expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Prime Minister for his direct support, as well as to the Chairman and members of the Parliamentary Energy Committee for their field follow-up on all stages of the project’s implementation.
 
He praised the national workforce, particularly the staff of the Ministry of Electricity, who will supervise this vital project.