Solar Power for Households in Iraq

Abstract

This paper assesses the feasibility of implementing solar power as a source of energy to generate electricity for households in Iraq. Detailed review of the baseline energy production, consumption, and requirements of households in Iraq was completed as a part of this research. It is concluded that there is currently insufficient electricity production in Iraq to satisfy the daily electricity requirements of the average household. This research demonstrates that it is possible to use solar photovoltaic cells to generate sufficient electricity to meet the energy requirements for the average household. Detailed analysis was also carried out to determine the various factors that need to be considered during the implementation of solar PV cells in the average Iraqi house to maximise per unit electricity output of each installation. Feasibility assessment of the climate in Iraq indicates that the weather conditions are suitable for successful application of solar power given the high levels of solar radiation across all the regions. However, it is also been identified that there are several factors that have the potential to reduce the efficiency of solar PV cells, including but not limited to pollution levels in urban areas and the dusty nature environment, particularly in the southern regions. Overall, the application of solar cells in households (rooftop) can be successful and is a potential source of clean electricity that can replace widespread use of diesel cogeneration in Iraq.