The Oil, Gas and Natural Resources Committee urged the Ministry of Electricity to present its 2025 plan, while confirming that the Ministry is set to contract with Kazakhstan for natural gas supplies. The move aims to alleviate reliance on volatile Iranian gas imports and address the crisis stemming from low kerosene and gas oil reserves, which have affected power generation.
On Wednesday, the Oil, Gas and Natural Resources Committee convened to discuss crucial matters concerning Iraq’s energy sector, specifically reviewing the Ministry of Electricity’s strategy for 2025. During this meeting, it was revealed that the Ministry is poised to enter into a contract with Kazakhstan for the supply of natural gas to Iraq. Spokesman for the Committee, Ali Shaddad, emphasized the urgency of the situation regarding the diminishing supplies of kerosene and gas oil. He pointed out that the strategic reserves of both the Ministry of Oil and the Ministry of Electricity are running low, creating significant operational challenges for power stations, most of which rely on kerosene. Shaddad further explained that the instability of gas imports from Iran has exacerbated these issues. Previous crises, particularly during peak demand periods, highlighted Iran’s inability to fulfill its gas export commitments, which consequently forced Iraq to resort to alternative fuels, adversely affecting the citizens. As a response to these challenges, the Committee is actively seeking a detailed plan from the Ministry of Electricity for the year 2025, which is pivotal for future energy planning. The prospective contract with Kazakhstan is expected to facilitate the procurement of approximately 20 million cubic meters of gas for Iraq’s needs.
The ongoing energy crisis in Iraq has led to significant discussions regarding the reliance on foreign gas imports, particularly from Iran. The instability in these imports has raised concerns about the sustainability of Iraq’s energy supply and the necessity for diversifying sources. The Ministry of Electricity’s engagement with Kazakhstan highlights an attempt to address these pressing energy deficits, particularly in the context of the country’s reliance on kerosene for power generation due to dwindling strategic reserves. The activities of the Oil, Gas and Natural Resources Committee indicate a proactive approach in seeking reliable energy sources to stabilise the energy situation in the country.
In summary, the discussions within the Oil, Gas and Natural Resources Committee underscore the urgent need for Iraq to secure alternative energy supplies amidst dwindling resources. The impending contract with Kazakhstan reflects a strategic shift towards diversification in energy sourcing, aimed at fortifying Iraq’s energy security moving forward. The call for the 2025 plan from the Ministry of Electricity further emphasizes the need for a long-term strategy to mitigate these challenges.
Original Source: ina.iq
