Inauguration of the Electricity Link between Iraq and Jordan

Iraq announced today, Friday, the inauguration of the electricity link with Jordan to supply the border area. This move is part of Baghdad's efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce the chronic power outages. Iraq has long relied on importing gas and electricity from Iran, after its ability to produce electricity was significantly damaged over years of wars and unrest. In a statement from Iraqi Minister of Electricity Ziad Ali Fadhil, he mentioned, "The depth of the electricity link is 330 km inside Iraqi territory," and it will officially start operations on Saturday. The minister added, "The amount of energy transmitted through the supply line in the first phase will be around 40 megawatts," noting that the link will provide "the town of Rutba with electricity after a 10-year struggle without national electricity for its residents." According to the minister, more energy will be drawn from the Jordanian side to reach 150 megawatts after completing the line to the Al-Qaim station, with a future goal of reaching 500 megawatts to supply large parts of Anbar province, west of the capital Baghdad. Despite its vast oil reserves, Iraq suffers from power rationing that can reach up to ten hours per day.