A case for replacing local generators by a service using only renewable energy sources in the city of Sulaymaniyah

Abstract

Despite the abundance of oil and gas reserves in the Kurdistan region, a critical challenge persists in fully meeting the region’s electricity demand. Local investors, recognising the daily shortfall of electricity in homes lasting six to eight hours, have introduced diesel generators to bridge the gap. Presently, each neighbourhood relies on multiple diesel generators to address the electricity deficit. However, these local generators pose significant issues, including inadequate power supply, substantial pollution, noise emissions, high-fuel consumption and an unsightly appearance. Given the region’s suitability for renewable energy, coupled with the intermittent nature of electricity demand, there arises a logical opportunity to develop a service as an alternative to local generators. This paper aims to explore the viability of such a service, intending to replace local diesel generators with a renewable energy solution. The study undertakes the following tasks: (i) conducting a life cycle assessment of local diesel generators to evaluate their environmental impact, cost-effectiveness and social acceptability, (ii) assessing the potential of Sulaymaniyah for renewable energy applications, particularly solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and wind turbines and (iii) incorporating a neighbourhood survey in Sulaymaniyah to gauge resident opinions and reactions toward the proposed renewable energy service.