Iraq’s Ministry of Oil announced that the country is on course to achieve natural gas self-sufficiency by 2030, with all gas-flaring projects scheduled for completion by the end of 2028, coinciding with the launch of a major energy project led by France’s TotalEnergies.
In a press statement, Ezzat Sabir Ismail, Undersecretary for Gas Affairs at the Ministry of Oil, said the government continues to advance projects aimed at capturing and utilizing both associated and free gas from key fields such as Akkas and Mansouriya, alongside developments linked to the fifth and sixth licensing rounds.
🔧 Expanding Gas Infrastructure
Ismail explained that once these projects are completed, Iraq will be able to fully meet domestic demand for gas and supply all power plants with locally produced fuel, reducing dependence on imports.
“The ministry’s gas investment strategy is designed to ensure energy security and support national electricity generation,” he said, emphasizing that the efforts align with Iraq’s broader energy independence goals.
🌍 Progress in LNG and Condensate Exports
The official also revealed that Iraq has already reached self-sufficiency in liquefied natural gas (LNG) used for vehicles. The country has begun exporting surplus LNG and gas condensates, which are now contributing to increased state revenues and diversifying Iraq’s export portfolio.
Ismail underscored that this success marks a significant step toward turning Iraq from a gas importer into an energy exporter over the next decade.
🔥 Ending Gas Flaring by 2028
According to the Ministry of Oil, all programs aimed at completely eliminating gas flaring — the burning of excess gas during oil production — are moving ahead on schedule.
“The ministry is fully committed to stopping gas flaring by 2028,” Ismail said, noting that this initiative will help Iraq reduce environmental pollution, cut carbon emissions, and maximize the value of natural resources.
⚡ Strategic Partnership with TotalEnergies
The timeline for Iraq’s gas-flaring reduction aligns with the launch of TotalEnergies’ integrated gas development project, which includes capturing flared gas, generating solar power, and expanding oil field output.
The Total-led initiative is expected to play a key role in transforming Iraq’s energy landscape, providing critical infrastructure for gas collection and power generation while supporting the country’s broader climate and economic goals.
💬 Outlook
Experts say Iraq’s progress on gas projects signals a turning point for its energy sector — reducing dependency on Iranian gas imports, improving national power reliability, and opening new opportunities for investment in the country’s growing energy market.
If all projects stay on schedule, Iraq could enter the next decade as one of the region’s leading self-reliant gas producers, with substantial benefits for both its economy and environment.
