Iraq plans to double power production by 2013

Iraq plans to boost power capacity to 12,330 MW by 2013. (GETTY IMAGES)

Iraq's Electricity Minister Karim has announced that Iraq is planning to add significant power capacity to the country's power capacity within the next year. His Ministry has revealed plans to ramp up power production through to April 2013 which is aimed at alleviating the country's frequent electricity shortages.

Under the plans, Iraq's power capacity this month is set to be 7,450 MW, rising to 9,000 MW in July. By December of this year power output is targeted to be 10,400 MW, with a production capacity of 12,330 MW in April 2013. Limited information was given about where the additional capacity would be coming from.

Iraq's current electricity demand is being partially met with deals such as the two-year contract with UAE Oilfield Services, reported in April, for the provision of two floating power plants docked in Basra. Under the deal, which is believed to be specifically aimed at summer power shortages, Iraq will gain an additional 250 MW of power output per day.

In a separate announcement, the country's Electricity Minister has also signed a power transfer contract with Syria for the transfer of power between the two countries via a high-voltage line.

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