Minister calls for int’l cooperation to advance renewable energy in Jordan

AMMAN — Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources  Saleh Kharabsheh on Thursday underscored the need for local, regional, and international cooperation to enhance the use and efficiency of renewable energy in Jordan.

Speaking at the Innovative Energy Solutions conference at the German-Jordanian University (GJU), organised by the university’s Energy Engineers Club, Kharabsheh highlighted the urgent need to secure investment and funding for the sector.

He emphasised that reducing the cost of renewable technologies hinges on intensified research and development and stronger collaboration between stakeholders, according to a ministry statement. 

“The Arab region’s desert climate gives it enormous renewable energy potential, positioning it to become a global leader in the field,” Kharabsheh said. He noted that energy is a critical pillar of sustainable development in Jordan, where 76 per cent of the Kingdom’s energy needs are met through imports — a burden costing 8 per cent of the GDP due to volatile international oil prices.

Kharabsheh stressed that a successful energy transition depends on innovation in renewables and viable alternatives to fossil fuels, with solar energy playing a pivotal role. He noted that Jordan’s Economic Modernisation Vision places renewable and alternative energy at its core, guided by a clear roadmap.

Reaffirming the government’s goal to make Jordan a regional hub for green energy production, the minister pointed to ongoing studies aimed at deploying advanced technologies such as electric transportation, smart grids, electricity storage, and green hydrogen.

GJU Vice President for Academic Excellence Iyad Khader said the conference comes at a time of rapid international shifts in the energy sector. He stressed the importance of developing practical, science-based solutions to address challenges such as climate change and technological evolution.

The two-day event brings together energy experts from 16 Jordanian universities, aiming to strengthen cooperation and knowledge exchange in the fields of energy efficiency and sustainability. 

It features interactive workshops and student-led committees focused on solar and wind energy, smart grids, HVAC systems, and sustainable transport, while tackling sector challenges and proposing actionable, innovative solutions.