The Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) faces significant geopolitical challenges as Baghdad seeks tighter control over energy governance, exacerbated by Turkey’s influence and Gulf states’ investments in clean energy. The KRI’s reliance on a fragile power system subjects it to external pressures, leading to political costs during energy shortages. A hybrid gas-solar strategy could enhance energy resilience, allowing the KRI to rebalance its relations with Baghdad and Ankara while mitigating political vulnerabilities. This decade will be crucial for determining the KRI’s stability as an energy actor amidst ongoing political tensions.
