Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity has officially started the first phase of installing smart electricity meters across several provinces and selected areas of Baghdad. At the same time, the ministry is rolling out key electronic payment systems.
According to the ministry, the project has already begun in parts of Baghdad, as well as in Diyala, Kirkuk, Anbar, and Wasit. Government institutions are included in this phase. The new smart meters allow people to track their daily power use, cut down on billing guesswork, and receive accurate electronic readings.
The ministry was clear that this move has nothing to do with privatization and does not mean higher electricity prices. It also confirmed that all government departments are now covered by either smart meters or electronic payment systems.
The meters are connected to a central electronic system linked directly to the National Control Centre. This allows usage data to be sent automatically, without manual readings. Officials say the project will help control heavy power loads, improve the efficiency of the electricity network, reduce losses, and deal with aging infrastructure.
The goal is also to organize electricity delivery in fast-growing or previously unplanned residential areas, helping build a more stable and regulated power system across the country.
