Sulaimani, Kurdistan Region – The Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Ministry of Electricity has announced the official expansion of the "Runaki" national electricity project to Sulaimani Province, marking a significant step in the region’s ambitious plan to provide 24-hour electricity to all residents.

On Thursday, the Ministry confirmed that the Runaki project has now reached Sulaimani, where it will initially benefit over 9,000 subscribers during a trial phase. The project will first target Sulaimani’s market districts and select neighborhoods, with plans to gradually extend coverage across the entire province. This expansion follows the project's successful implementation in Erbil, where 17 districts have already been connected, providing uninterrupted power to 100,000 subscribers.

Launched by KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on October 17, 2024, the Runaki initiative aims to modernize the Kurdistan Region’s electricity grid and ensure 24-hour power supply to all parts of Kurdistan by the end of 2026. The project is a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to reduce reliance on costly and environmentally harmful private generators, which have long been a primary source of electricity for households and businesses.

The Ministry of Electricity emphasized that Runaki is designed to enhance the quality of life for citizens and boost economic activity in key commercial zones by providing a stable and efficient power supply. Following its rollout in Erbil and the ongoing trial phase in Sulaimani, the project is set to expand to all major cities in Kurdistan. The next phase has already been implemented in Duhok, with further plans to extend coverage to additional districts and rural areas.

Local authorities have been instructed to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Electricity to ensure a smooth transition to a centralized power grid. Infrastructure improvements, smart metering systems, and network upgrades are being prioritized to support the project’s expansion.

For decades, residents of the Kurdistan Region have relied on a combination of government-provided electricity and privately owned diesel generators to meet their power needs. Frequent power shortages and inconsistent supply have placed significant financial burdens on households and businesses. The Runaki project aims to address these challenges by delivering a consistent and sustainable electricity supply, reducing the need for private generators, and lowering both electricity costs and environmental pollution.

The KRG has reiterated its commitment to modernizing public utilities and transitioning to a more sustainable energy system. The Runaki project is part of a broader set of reforms aimed at improving energy efficiency, investing in renewable energy sources, and ensuring equitable access to electricity for all residents.

The Ministry of Electricity has assured the public that efforts to maintain system reliability, manage energy consumption effectively, and integrate new technologies will continue as part of the region’s long-term energy strategy. With the ongoing success of Runaki, the Kurdistan Region is moving closer to achieving its goal of 24-hour electricity for all, setting a precedent for future infrastructure projects and demonstrating the government’s dedication to progress and modernization.

As the project expands, officials anticipate a significant reduction in the reliance on private generators, paving the way for a more sustainable and economically vibrant future for the Kurdistan Region.