Iraq has inaugurated a crucial electricity interconnection line with Turkey to power its northern region, marking a significant step in Baghdad’s efforts to diversify energy sources and mitigate frequent power outages.

Iraqi Electricity Minister Ziad Ali Fadhil unveiled details of the joint project, stating that the northern province of Nineveh had already phased out local generators following the opening of the Iraqi-Jordanian electricity link.

Fadhil emphasized that the Iraqi-Turkish interconnection project is a strategic endeavor, representing a qualitative leap in strengthening the national electricity grid by linking it to the international network through Turkey and the European Union. He noted that this line, also known as the 400 kV Jazira-Cizre line, had been stalled for nearly two decades.

“Today, we have achieved tangible progress in completing this strategic project, which spans 115 kilometers within Turkish territory, passing through the Dohuk Governorate and reaching Nineveh,” Fadhil stated, highlighting its role as an “electricity bridge” connecting the grids of both countries.

He commended the General Company for Electricity Transmission in the Northern Region for its dedicated efforts in achieving significant milestones within a record timeframe. These accomplishments include constructing the 400 kV Sakk station in Nineveh, laying new 132 kV lines, and replacing the wires of the 132 kV Cizre-Tal Afar line with high-precision thermal wires.

Fadhil affirmed that this line would significantly bolster power supply to the governorates of Nineveh, Kirkuk, and Salah al-Din. It would also enable load maneuvering and energy transfer to the capital, Baghdad, and southern governorates when needed.