Khaberni - The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Dr. Saleh Al-Kharabsheh, sponsored today, Thursday, the launch of the national dialogue workshops to support policies in the field of energy transformation, and enhance coordination between government entities and the private sector, and discuss the regulatory and financial challenges to accelerate the implementation of clean energy projects, within the Sustainable Energy Investment Accelerator initiative, executed through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
In his opening address, Al-Kharabsheh said that this workshop represents an important platform for enhancing cooperation among various stakeholders in the energy sector, especially in light of the current regional and global conditions and their impact on all sectors including the energy sector.
He pointed out that "we must think about accelerating investment in sustainable energy, and adopt a more flexible and sustainable approach in planning and developing energy systems," noting that the ministry seeks to enhance Jordan's position to be a regional hub for producing and exchanging energy with neighboring regions and with North Africa and Europe.
Al-Kharabsheh added that work is ongoing on implementing several projects in this context, the most important of which are (a solar photovoltaic power project with a total capacity of 200 megawatts, a wind power project with a total capacity of up to 100 megawatts, and an electric energy storage project using water pumping and storage technology with a capacity of up to 450 megawatts).
He emphasized that the energy transition has become not just an option but a strategic necessity to ensure energy supply security and enhance economic stability, pointing out that it is essential to build on what has been accomplished and move to another level that ensures the sustainability of investment in energy projects.
He explained that the effective partnership between the government and the private sector, including investors and financiers in implementing renewable energy projects, has contributed to placing Jordan on the map of leading countries in this field, particularly in light of a legislative environment that is attractive and conducive to investment in this vital sector through genuine platforms for building national expertise and developing capacities.
Al-Kharabsheh also confirmed that work is ongoing to develop regulatory and legislative frameworks to keep up with the rapid transformations in the sector, and to support the integration of modern technologies, mainly (energy storage and green hydrogen and enhancing grid flexibility), adding that the next phase requires continued enhancement of the private sector's role as a main partner in achieving the goals of the energy transition.
On her part, Randa Abu Al-Hassan, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Program in Jordan, said that the Sustainable Energy Investment Accelerator Program comes in exceptional circumstances due to what is happening in the region, noting that the program aims to achieve energy security targets, sustainability of access to energy sources, and environmental sustainability.
Hassan pointed out that the program's plan through its various stages aligns fully with the targets of the Economic Modernization Vision, through providing clear mechanisms for support and financing, ensuring an expansion of strategic prospects with governmental institutions in Jordan, and especially with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.
She expressed pride in the partnership between the United Nations Development Program and Jordan after 50 years since the program was established in the Kingdom, ensuring that the program will continue this collaboration to achieve all targets.
The workshops include holding discussion sessions that address topics of empowering the private sector's role in leading the transformation in the energy sector, mechanisms for mobilizing capital, and risk reduction strategies for investments in the clean energy sector, and enhancing the financial feasibility of projects.
