Former MP Baqir al-Saadi is calling for wider use of what he described as “economic systems,” saying they could reduce pressure on Iraq’s electricity grid by more than 20%.
He said a major share of electricity is used by irrigation pumps on farms and orchards, with that demand putting heavy strain on the national grid.
His proposal is to expand solar-powered systems for farmers through interest-free loans, allowing irrigation pumps to move off the grid and run on solar energy instead.
Al-Saadi said the idea could cut electricity use, ease pressure during peak hours, and help Iraq avoid power shortages, especially with summer demand expected to rise in 2026.
He stressed the need to move quickly, saying agricultural demand will increase as summer planting approaches, making alternative energy solutions more urgent.
