Jordan eyes renewable power exports

As wind and solar power capacity have ramped up impressively, the government is mulling ways to maximise its returns

Jordanian energy minister Saleh Kharabsheh declared via state media in mid-November that the kingdom’s 2030 target for renewables’ share of the power generation mix had been lifted to 50pc from 30pc. The low-key announcement came days after an Australian mining company formally began exploring potential green hydrogen production in Jordan, and days before a landmark agreement envisaging exports of renewables-derived electricity to neighbouring Israel. Famously an oasis of peace in a conflict-riven region, Jordan is also historically dependent on hydrocarbon imports for over 90pc of its energy needs, with all the attendant insecurity and costs implied. Unsurprisingly, the kingdom moved early