Jordan’s Energy Transition Hindered By Fossil Fuel Dependence, Says Research

Jordan, known for its heavy reliance on imported oil and gas, is confronting significant hurdles in advancing its renewable energy sector, according to recent research and surveys conducted by experts.

Over 93% of Jordan’s energy needs are met through imported fossil fuels, a dependency exacerbated by long-term procurement agreements that hinder the expansion of renewable energy sources. The country’s energy transition efforts have been stymied by concerns over near-term energy security and geopolitical considerations, including influences from the United States.

“Jordan presents a unique case study on public perceptions and attitudes towards energy transition in authoritarian regimes,” explained lead author Silvia Weko, now affiliated with Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg. The study, conducted in collaboration with Esther Schuch from RIFS, involved surveys of 320 households across four diverse locations: East Amman, West Amman, Zarqa, and Tafilah.

Attitudes towards renewable energy among respondents were largely positive, with only 9% opposing the shift from fossil fuels to solar and wind energy. Despite mixed knowledge about climate change, a significant portion of respondents expressed personal experiences or knowledge of its impacts. A striking 83% anticipated that the energy transition would create new employment opportunities, a crucial factor in a country grappling with high youth unemployment rates.

Regional disparities in attitudes were evident, with Tafilah, near a major wind farm, showing stronger support for renewable energy compared to Zarqa, a hub for the oil industry. Respondents in economically weaker areas like East Amman were more cautious, highlighting the need for tailored policies that address local economic concerns and maximize benefits.

“Our findings suggest that Jordanian policymakers should reconsider policies that hinder renewable energy expansion,” emphasized Esther Schuch. She stressed the importance of acknowledging regional differences and implementing strategies to mitigate potential economic disruptions, particularly in fossil fuel-intensive regions unlikely to directly benefit from renewable energy investments.

As Jordan navigates its energy future, balancing economic development with environmental sustainability remains a critical challenge. The insights from this study underscore the imperative for inclusive and regionally sensitive energy policies to drive Jordan’s transition towards a more sustainable energy landscape.