A problem with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) transportation at the Khor Mor gas field in Chamchamal district has led to a significant reduction in electricity production in the Kurdistan Region, the Ministry of Electricity announced on Saturday.

The issue has forced Dana Gas, the UAE-based operator of the field, to cut 100 million cubic feet of gas supply. This reduction has resulted in a 700-megawatt drop in electricity output, exacerbating the region’s ongoing energy challenges.

Khor Mor gas field, one of the largest in the Kurdistan Region, produces over 500 million standard cubic feet of gas daily and serves as the primary supplier for the region’s power plants.

Government Efforts to Address the Crisis

The Ministry of Electricity stated that it is working closely with the Ministry of Natural Resources to resolve the issue and restore normal electricity production.

This incident follows a gas leak at the same field last month, which caused a region-wide total shutdown of power generation.

Long-standing Electricity Woes

The Kurdistan Region has faced persistent electricity shortages due to high demand, financial constraints, and fuel supply issues. Power stations frequently operate below capacity, leaving residents to rely on private diesel generators when the national grid falters.

These generators, while necessary, are expensive to operate and contribute to environmental pollution, adding to the burden on households and the region's ecological footprint.

Impact on Daily Life

The recurring power outages have been a major inconvenience for residents, impacting businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities. The latest reduction in electricity output is expected to further strain the system during a period of high demand.

The Ministry of Electricity has not provided a specific timeline for when the gas transportation issue at Khor Mor will be resolved, but officials have assured the public that efforts are underway to mitigate the disruption and normalize power supply.

As the region grapples with these challenges, the need for sustainable and reliable energy solutions remains a pressing concern for the Kurdistan Regional Government.