Iraq has officially launched its first industrial-scale solar panel manufacturing facility, marking an important step in the country’s efforts to expand renewable energy production and develop local manufacturing capabilities.
The new facility, known as the Al-Nour Solar Panel Production Plant, is located in Karbala and was established for the Project Engineering Department of the Al-Abbas Holy Shrine.
The plant was developed in partnership with Italian company Ecoprogetti Srl, which supplied and installed the complete production line and provided technical expertise for the project.
The factory has an annual production capacity of more than 200 megawatts (MW) and can produce approximately 800 solar panels per day. It is designed to manufacture advanced M10-144 TOPCon half-cut photovoltaic modules, a technology known for higher efficiency and improved energy output.
Plans are already in place for a second expansion phase that will increase the facility’s annual production capacity to 600 MW, significantly boosting Iraq’s domestic solar manufacturing potential.
Beyond supplying equipment, Ecoprogetti’s role included installing automated production systems such as stringers, robotic equipment, laminators, testing systems, and quality-control technologies. The company also provided support for production optimization, raw material selection, and manufacturing processes.
A major focus of the project is developing local expertise. The facility includes training programs aimed at Iraqi engineers and technicians, helping build a skilled workforce capable of supporting the country’s growing renewable energy sector.
The opening of the Al-Nour plant represents a significant milestone for Iraq’s clean energy ambitions. By manufacturing solar panels locally, the country can reduce dependence on imports, create new industrial opportunities, and support the expansion of solar power projects needed to meet rising electricity demand.
As Iraq continues to diversify its energy sources, the Karbala facility is expected to play an important role in strengthening the nation’s renewable energy infrastructure and supporting long-term economic development.
