Jordan’s energy transition hampered by dependence on fossil fuels, study says

Jordan, known for its heavy dependence on imported oil and gas, faces serious obstacles in developing its renewable energy sector, according to new research and surveys conducted by experts.

Jordan meets more than 93% of its energy needs with imported fossil fuels, a dependence exacerbated by long-term procurement contracts that hinder the expansion of renewables. The country’s energy transition efforts have been hampered by concerns about short-term energy security and geopolitical considerations, including influence from the United States.

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

Attitudes towards renewable energy among respondents were largely positive, with only 9% opposed to switching from fossil fuels to solar and wind power. Despite mixed views on climate change, a significant proportion of respondents expressed personal experience or knowledge of its effects. A striking 83% predicted that the energy transition would create new job opportunities, a key factor in a country struggling with high youth unemployment.

There were regional differences in attitudes, with Tafilah, near a large wind farm, showing stronger support for renewable energy compared with Zarqa, a centre of the oil industry. Respondents from economically weaker areas, such as East Amman, were more cautious, emphasising the need for tailored policies that take into account local economic concerns and maximise benefits.

“Our findings suggest that Jordanian policymakers should reconsider policies that hinder the expansion of renewable energy,” said Esther Schuch, who stressed the importance of recognizing regional differences and implementing strategies to mitigate potential economic disruptions, especially in fossil fuel-intensive regions that are 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 findings of this study underscore the need for inclusive and regionally sensitive energy policies to drive Jordan’s transformation towards a more sustainable energy landscape.

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