Jordan’s Minister Of Energy Reviews Two Decades Of Development Projects In Northern Badia

Dr. Saleh Al-Kharabsheh, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, joined a ministerial delegation led by Prime Minister Dr. Bishr Al-Khasawneh on a visit to Northern Badia. The visit commemorates the Kingdom’s celebrations of the silver jubilee of His Majesty King Abdullah II’s accession to the throne and aims to review the progress of governmental projects over the past 25 years.

Among the significant achievements highlighted during the visit were projects in the energy and mineral wealth sectors, notably the ongoing “Natural Gas Pipeline from Aqaba to the North of the Kingdom and its Expansion” initiative. Initiated in 2008, this project has been pivotal in enhancing energy efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring secure energy supplies for national industries by supplying natural gas.

The completed natural gas pipeline spans from the Sheikh Hussein crossing to Rehab, supporting economic development and bolstering the Kingdom’s energy security. It has significantly contributed to meeting the electricity sector’s needs, industrial requirements, and urban distribution demands while creating job opportunities for Jordanian labor.

In rural electrification efforts, substantial progress has been made since 1999, with electricity extended to 813 sites benefiting 1,795 homes by the end of 2023, representing an investment of 3.1 million Jordanian dinars. Additionally, solar cell systems have been installed for 99 homes of beneficiaries of the National Aid Fund, with ongoing efforts to electrify 59 more sites and install solar systems for additional households.

Renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives have also thrived in Northern Badia, including support for solar installations in municipalities and schools, yielding both environmental benefits and job creation. Noteworthy projects include the Safawi solar project, generating 143 gigawatts annually and creating over 1,500 temporary and 31 permanent jobs.

Furthermore, significant strides have been made in geological surveys, with detailed maps and reports prepared across Northern Badia, aiding infrastructure development, agricultural research, and water source prospecting. These efforts underline Jordan’s commitment to sustainable development and resource management in its arid regions.

Minister Al-Kharabsheh emphasized the strategic importance of these projects in enhancing energy efficiency, fostering economic growth, and supporting Jordan’s transition towards renewable energy sources. The visit reaffirmed the government’s dedication to advancing national development goals and ensuring sustainable energy solutions for future generations.