Jordan’s Energy Minister Analyses 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 celebration of the Silver Jubilee of the accession to the throne of His Majesty King Abdullah II and aims to review the progress of government projects over the past 25 years.

Among the significant achievements highlighted during the visit were projects in the energy and mineral resources sectors, in particular the ongoing initiative “Natural Gas Pipeline from Aqaba to the North of the Kingdom and its Expansion”. Initiated in 2008, this project has played a key role in increasing energy efficiency, reducing costs and ensuring secure energy supplies for domestic industries through the provision of natural gas.

The completed pipeline extends from Sheikh Hussein Passage to Rehab, supporting economic development and strengthening the Kingdom’s energy security. It has contributed significantly to meeting the needs of the electricity sector, industrial requirements and urban distribution needs, while creating employment opportunities for Jordanian workers.

The rural electrification effort has made significant progress since 1999, and by the end of 2023, electricity had been extended to 813 locations, benefiting 1,795 homes, representing an investment of 3.1 million Jordanian dinars. In addition, solar panels have been installed in 99 homes of National Relief Fund beneficiaries, and work is underway to electrify 59 more locations and install solar panels for more households.

Renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives have also been growing in Northern Badia, including support for solar installations in municipalities and schools, bringing environmental benefits and creating jobs. Notable projects include the Safawi solar project, generating 143 gigawatts per year and creating more than 1,500 temporary and 31 permanent jobs.

In addition, significant progress has been made in geological surveys, detailed maps and reports have been prepared throughout the Northern Badia region, supporting infrastructure development, agricultural research and water resource exploration. These activities underscore Jordan’s commitment to sustainable development and resource management in its arid regions.

Minister Al-Kharabsheh stressed the strategic importance of these projects in increasing energy efficiency, supporting economic growth and supporting Jordan’s transition to renewable energy sources. The visit reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving national development goals and ensuring sustainable energy solutions for future generations.

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