The Kurdistan Region has advanced its 24-hour electricity project, and officials have confirmed the integration of Shaqlawa and Makhmur into the Runaki Program. Consequently, this milestone will soon provide continuous electricity across the entire Erbil Governorate. Furthermore, authorities aim to achieve universal round-the-clock electricity by the end of 2026.
This expansion marks a major modernization of public services across the region. In addition, the project is building a more resilient power sector to support daily life. Shaqlawa Mayor Suara Akram said engineering teams have completed most of the required infrastructure. As a result, residents will begin receiving stable electricity very soon. This development will immediately benefit more than 10,000 electricity subscribers in Shaqlawa. Meanwhile, neighboring Makhmur is progressing rapidly toward the same goal.
Officials expect Makhmur to join the network within days. This achievement will eliminate a major electricity coverage gap in Erbil Governorate while significantly reducing reliance on noisy private diesel generators. Engineers have spent months upgrading distribution networks and transmission systems. They prioritized Shaqlawa because of its growing mountain tourism sector. Consequently, hotels and restaurants will see substantially lower operating costs.
Local businesses will also be able to plan their operations with greater certainty. This stability will boost productivity while significantly reducing fuel expenditures. Authorities are implementing the initiative in phases by dividing the electricity network into operational zones. Consequently, engineers can upgrade infrastructure without interrupting existing services. Several districts already enjoy uninterrupted electricity under this approach, including Akre, Semel, and Koya.
According to official statistics, the program now serves 5.5 million residents. Additionally, more than 153,000 commercial properties benefit from this reliable electricity supply. Participating cities have already retired nearly 6,000 private neighborhood generators. This transition has improved the reliability of healthcare services and critical medical equipment. Schools also benefit from stable electricity to support digital classrooms. Furthermore, eliminating diesel generators will reduce toxic emissions, improve air quality, and enhance the overall quality of life for families.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani continues to champion the electricity modernization initiative. He has pledged to provide full grid coverage for every home by the end of 2026. This ambitious project represents a significant step toward delivering reliable, efficient, and sustainable electricity throughout the Kurdistan Region. As authorities expand the Runaki Program, the region moves steadily toward achieving uninterrupted electricity for every household and business while turning a long-term vision into reality.