Electricity sector in Iraq
Over 80% of electricity in Iraq is generated by fossil fuels. the 30 gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity cannot meet summer peak demand. According to the United States Department of Energy officials, demand for electricity has been stimulated by a growing economy and a surge in consumer purchases of appliances and electronics. In addition, electricity is subsidized in Iraq, which leads to increased demand. Due to a weak grid and institutional problems many consumers use small generators or rooftop solar panels. History Electricity entered Iraq for the first time in 1917 where the first electric machine was installed in "Khan Dala" building. Prior to the Gulf War, the total installed generating capacity was 5,100 MW, which fell to about 2,300 MW after the Gulf War. Approximately 87% of the population had access to electricity. A combination of wars, sanctions, looting and vandalism has however, severely affected the entire power system infrastructure in Iraq. During the 1991 Gulf War, the electricity system suffered severe damage. Several transmission lines were put out of service, electrical substations were damaged. While some of the damage of the 1991 war was repaired and about 4,500 MW of generating capacity was available in 1999 when Iraq