BAGHDAD -- The amount of power generated in Iraq is higher than it was before the end of the reign of leader Saddam Hussein in 2003, RFE/RL's Radio Free Iraq reports.
Electricity Minister Karim Wahid said in Babil Province on February 18 that the country's power output has reached 6,760 megawatts, some 2,500 megawatts more than the amount being generated in 2003 before the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq.
Wahid added that the country will get a substantial increase in power this summer when several large energy-producing projects will be finished and provide an additional 2,000 megawatts.
Wahid said the government's recent budget cuts due to the fall in oil prices will not affect the Electricity Ministry's plans.
Despite the increased energy, there is still an electricity shortage in Iraq. Electricity rationing still occurs, including in the capital, Baghdad.