Jordan Launches New Solar Energy Support Program To Reduce Household Bills

The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Dr. Saleh Al-Kharabsheh, announced the launch of a new phase of Jordan’s solar energy support program, aimed at reducing household electricity bills by 30%. This initiative includes the installation of 4,000 solar cell systems and 5,000 solar water heater systems across the country, with total investments amounting to 8 million and 3 million Jordanian dinars, respectively.

During a press conference, Al-Kharabsheh highlighted the program’s role in sustaining the energy market, preserving jobs, creating new employment opportunities, and boosting investments in the solar energy sector. The initiative aligns with Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to a smooth energy transition and supporting Jordan’s commitment to reducing emissions.

The minister emphasized that the government remains committed to providing financial support and leveraging the available capacity of the electricity grid across governorates. He noted that the program is part of the ministry’s strategic plan for 2022-2024 and falls under the broader Renewable Energy Fund and the Rural Philosophy initiative.

This phase also focuses on supporting low-income families and military casualties, with the ministry offering 100% grants for solar energy systems in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Development and the National Aid Fund.

Al-Kharabsheh addressed misconceptions about the electricity sector reforms, stating that restructuring efforts are essential to balancing and stabilizing the national electricity system, despite criticism from some sectors.

Currently, renewable energy contributes about 27% of Jordan’s electricity production, and the government aims to increase this share in the future. Rasmi Hamza, Director of the Renewable Energy Promotion Fund, encouraged citizens to use the “Initial Inclusion” platform for applications starting tomorrow, ensuring transparency and adherence to technical specifications.

This new phase builds on the success of a previous round, which installed 3,500 solar heaters and 2,000 solar cell systems at a cost of 7 million dinars.