U.S. Consulate in Erbil Applauds Runaki Project, Highlights American Role in Advancing Kurdistan's Energy Security
“We’re proud to see U.S. companies like GE Vernova supporting Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s energy security. Expanding 24/7 electricity through the Runaki project to 2M residents is a vital step forward for the IKR,” the U.S. Consulate General in Erbil stated.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The U.S. Consulate General in Erbil on Thursday praised the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) ambitious Runaki (Light) electricity project, calling it a “vital step forward” for the energy security of the Kurdistan Region and Iraq as a whole.
In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the consulate wrote, “We’re proud to see U.S. companies like GE Vernova supporting Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s energy security. Expanding 24/7 electricity through the Runaki project to 2M residents is a vital step forward for the IKR.”
The Runaki project, launched by the KRG in partnership with international and local firms, aims to provide around-the-clock electricity to residents across the Kurdistan Region. According to KRG figures, over 2 million people and more than 544,000 households are now benefiting from uninterrupted 24-hour power as part of the expanding initiative.
Earlier in the day, officials confirmed that the project will soon extend to Halabja province, where approximately 42,000 households are expected to receive round-the-clock power by the end of August.
A Strategic Energy Transformation
The Kurdistan Region has long struggled with inconsistent electricity supply, relying on backup generators and imported power to meet demand. The Runaki project marks a turning point, offering a locally-driven, long-term solution with substantial backing from international firms—including GE Vernova, a U.S.-based energy technology company.
The KRG’s Ministry of Electricity hailed the project's progress on Wednesday, noting that it now reaches nearly 30% of the Region’s population, particularly in major urban centers like Erbil, Duhok, and Sulaimani.
Officials say the project not only reduces reliance on costly generators but also contributes to environmental sustainability, helping the Region transition toward cleaner and more affordable energy sources.
The U.S. Consulate’s endorsement of the project underscores Washington’s broader commitment to supporting Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s energy reform efforts, particularly through strategic partnerships with American companies that bring cutting-edge technology and expertise.
As demand for stable electricity rises across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, the Runaki project is being hailed as a model for practical cooperation and public-private investment in one of the country’s most vital sectors.
