Amman, Dec. 16 (Petra) – Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh highlighted significant accomplishments in Jordan's energy sector, emphasizing continuous progress and distinguished services achieved through years of dedicated efforts.

Speaking at a dialogue session titled "Developments in the Energy Sector in the Kingdom," organized by the Jordan Engineers Association, Kharabsheh acknowledged challenges posed by global advancements in energy but affirmed the ministry's commitment to addressing them.

Kharabsheh identified high energy costs as a critical challenge for Jordan’s economy, underlining the need to reduce these costs to strengthen the sector’s role as a national and economic driver. He noted Jordan’s success in renewable energy production, with renewables contributing 27% of the country’s electricity, a figure expected to reach 31% by 2031.

The minister also provided updates on energy exploration, citing positive indicators in gas fields such as Risha and oil exploration areas including Azraq, Jafr, West Safawi, and Sarhan. He stressed that the ministry's exploration efforts are progressing as planned, with significant interest from international companies.

A national program to deliver natural gas to cities and industrial complexes is underway, with Amman and Zarqa set to receive gas supplies soon, potentially reducing energy costs for citizens and industries by at least 35%, he added.

Turning to future fuels, Kharabsheh described green hydrogen as a transformative opportunity for Jordan. The country has developed a green hydrogen strategy aimed at making Jordan a regional hub for its production, leveraging local expertise and resources. So far, 14 memoranda of understanding and one framework agreement have been signed, with two companies advancing land use agreements for technical studies.

Amani Azzam, Secretary-General of the Ministry, highlighted Jordan’s strides in renewable energy, noting that its contribution to electricity production has surged from 1% in 2014 to 27% today.

She pointed to the National Electricity Power Company's 2035 plans, which include integrating renewable energy and prioritizing energy efficiency through the upcoming Electricity Bill 2024.

Ahmed Samara, President of the Jordan Engineers Association, affirmed the association’s commitment to collaborating with the government to achieve energy security and sustainability in a region marked by volatility.

//Petra// AO

16/12/2024 15:00:41