Over the past two decades, Iraq has been seen as a traditional oil power. But a new opportunity is emerging — one that could shift the country’s position on the global energy map once again: green hydrogen.
Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources like solar and wind, is being called the fuel of the future. Countries in Europe and Asia are investing billions. Gulf states like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman have already launched national hydrogen strategies. The question is: can Iraq join this race?
🟩 Why Iraq Has the Right Ingredients
Iraq’s natural advantage is immense. It has:
- Vast solar exposure across southern and western regions.
- Abundant land for large-scale green energy farms.
- Proximity to Europe and Asia — key hydrogen import markets.
- A skilled energy workforce already operating at global standards.
With strategic investment and policy clarity, Iraq could become a key green hydrogen exporter — especially to Europe, which is aggressively seeking energy alternatives.
🟥 But There Are Real Barriers
However, this opportunity must be viewed realistically. Iraq faces:
- Infrastructure gaps: no national hydrogen roadmap yet, and limited current capacity.
- Political complexity: which can deter some long-term investors.
- Global competition: from faster-moving neighbors.
- Economic balance: the need to reconcile oil revenue dependency with clean energy ambitions.
This is not a challenge that can be solved with vision alone — it requires execution, partnerships, and bold government support.
🟨 A Strategic Window — But Not Forever
If Iraq delays, others will take its place. Saudi Arabia’s NEOM project already aims to be the world’s largest green hydrogen hub by 2030. Oman has signed multi-billion-dollar deals. Investors are moving now — not in 5 years. What Iraq urgently needs is:
- A national green hydrogen strategy.
- Public-private partnerships to accelerate execution.
- Incentives for renewable infrastructure investment.
- Education and workforce retraining in hydrogen technologies.
🌍 Why It Still Matters — Beyond Energy
Green hydrogen isn’t just about energy — it’s about positioning Iraq as a future-ready, diversified economy. It’s a strategic move for economic sovereignty, climate resilience, and global relevance. As someone who has led ventures in oil, gas, and renewables across multiple markets, I believe Iraq still holds a historic opportunity — if it acts boldly.