Iraq's First Fully Solar-Powered Village - Kulak in Northern Iraq
The Rwanga Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Erbil, has launched Iraq’s first fully solar-powered village, marking a major step toward sustainable living in the country. The Kulak solar village, situated in the Harir district of the Kurdistan region in northern Iraq, now provides 24/7 electricity to its residents through 195 solar panels. These panels power 36 homes, mosques, schools, and community halls.
In its official statement, the Rwanga Foundation noted the potential for solar-powered irrigation and announced plans to introduce practical training programs in regenerative agriculture. The initiative is especially timely, as Iraq faces growing environmental threats, including rising temperatures, worsening water shortages, and accelerating desertification. According to the United Nations, Iraq is ranked as the fifth most climate-vulnerable country in the world.
Looking ahead, the foundation aims to replicate this solar village model in rural communities across both Kurdistan and central Iraq by the end of the decade. The effort will involve close collaboration with local governments and international partners.
“Our vision is to see this model grow across Iraq – one village at a time – until sustainability becomes the standard, not the exception,” said Idris Nechirvan Barzani, founder and president of the Rwanga Foundation.
Data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) shows that Iraq’s total solar energy capacity reached 42 megawatts by the end of last year.
