Erbil, Kurdistan Region – The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is set to launch a new initiative providing long-term loans to citizens for installing solar power systems in their homes, a major step toward a sustainable and energy-resilient future.

Sana’an Abdullah, Director of the Environmental Awareness and Media Office, confirmed to Kurdistan 24 on Friday that the project will initially target citizens with existing bank accounts, allowing them to apply for loans to cover residential solar installations.

"Every ordinary citizen can qualify for the loan, but they must provide proof of having a bank account," Abdullah said, adding that the initiative has been carefully reviewed and will be rolled out soon.

This program builds on the KRG’s previous successes in deploying solar energy in the public sector, particularly in schools. So far, 81 public schools across Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok, Halabja, Kirkuk, and independent administrative zones have been equipped with solar systems, ensuring reliable electricity and reducing reliance on diesel generators.

In a further push for sustainability, KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani recently allocated an additional five billion Iraqi dinars to expand solar power to 76 more schools, underscoring the government’s commitment to education and clean energy.

The shift to solar comes as the Kurdistan Region, like much of Iraq, grapples with chronic power shortages and environmental challenges. With worsening electricity supply and increasing climate concerns, solar energy presents a viable and renewable alternative.

Experts see the loan program as a strategic policy that not only advances environmental goals but also helps citizens achieve energy independence while cutting monthly electricity costs. The initiative aligns with the KRG’s broader environmental and energy policies, which aim to diversify energy sources, reduce emissions, and modernize infrastructure for a greener future.

As global and regional trends move away from fossil fuels, the KRG’s solar push marks a significant effort to address energy security and climate resilience in the Kurdistan Region.