40/ Energy Minister discusses development of EV charging sector in Irbid
Irbid, Feb. 17 (Petra) – Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh announced the launch of a comprehensive technical study to review the loss rate at electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, aiming to find a solution to this issue and ensure the efficiency of these stations. He stated that the Ministry is currently studying regulatory measures for charging stations to achieve a balance between expanding the electric vehicle sector and regulating these stations in a way that meets both technical and economic requirements. Kharabsheh gave his remarks during a meeting on Monday at the Irbid District Electricity Company (Irbid Electricity), with the presence of Ziad Saida, Chairman of the Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission (EMRC), Bashar Tamimi, CEO of the company, Mohammad Shouha, Chairman of the Irbid Chamber of Commerce, and several investors in the electric vehicle charging sector in the northern governorate. Kharabsheh explained that with the introduction of electric vehicles to the local market and the issuance of licenses for charging stations, the Ministry adopted a policy of facilitating procedures rather than complicating them, considering the role these stations play in creating job opportunities and supporting various commercial activities. Regarding new fuel station licenses (for gasoline, kerosene, and diesel), Kharabsheh confirmed that the Ministry will reconsider the requirement for an electric charger at new stations, and this will be studied further. He emphasized the Ministry's commitment to ensuring an equitable distribution of charging stations, noting that some adjacent plots of land are applying for licenses to set up charging stations, which necessitates an in-depth study to ensure fairness and efficiency in issuing these licenses. Kharabsheh also stated that the Ministry encourages investment in solar energy and energy storage, and it is open to granting licenses for charging stations powered by renewable energy, as long as these stations are entirely independent of the national grid, operating solely with solar units and storage batteries. This will contribute to increasing reliance on clean energy and supporting sustainability in the electric vehicle transport sector. Kharabsheh affirmed that the Ministry of Energy, in cooperation with the EMRC and relevant stakeholders, will continue to address all challenges and suggestions, reviewing regulatory aspects to improve and ensure the continued delivery of services to citizens, especially with the rapid expansion of the sector and the growing number of electric vehicles in the Kingdom. This will positively impact the sector, enhance its sustainability, and encourage investment, including the integration of charging stations with the national grid. Saida added that the EMRC will continue to monitor the challenges and feedback discussed at the meeting and work on finding appropriate solutions. Tamimi pointed out that the Irbid Electricity has received several comments regarding electric vehicle charging stations in Irbid, which has become the most widespread governorate for such stations in the Kingdom. He noted that the company supports this vital and strategic sector due to its importance in enhancing the use of clean energy and reducing reliance on traditional fuels. Shouha, for his part, confirmed that the Chamber of Commerce has received several comments and issues from electric vehicle charging stations, highlighting the potential of this sector, which requires the provision of suitable infrastructure and resolution of any pending problems to ensure the delivery of the best services. During the meeting, several charging station owners called for a review of the regulations governing the sector and the expansion of licenses in Irbid to practice the activity, which would help improve operational mechanisms and provide a more encouraging environment for existing station owners and future investors. They also requested effective solutions for integrating charging stations with the national grid. //Petra// AF
17/02/2025 23:29:39
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