Jordan’s electricity is “secure,” says energy minister

Jordan’s electricity sector is experiencing significant development and is well-prepared to face challenges, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Saleh Al-Kharabsheh said Wednesday, amid the ongoing Iran war and the resulting fallout.

Al-Kharabsheh said in statements that the kingdom has “learned from past crises”, particularly the gas shortages during the Arab Spring, which cost the country’s treasury heavily due to reliance on a single expensive source.

Al-Kharabsheh added the sector’s current strategy focuses on diversifying sources and maintaining ready alternatives.

Jordan now relies on a secure energy mix that includes solar and wind power, oil shale, and natural gas plants, which can switch to heavy fuel oil or diesel if needed, he continued.

All electricity generation plants are required to maintain a stock of alternative fuel sufficient for 30 days of operation in case of gas supply disruptions, the minister added.

Regarding gas, Al-Kharabsheh highlighted infrastructure that allows Jordan to import gas from global markets.

He also noted cooperation with Egypt, including leasing a floating gas vessel, which has helped reduce costs and ensure continuous supply for both countries.

The minister announced that gas shipments are scheduled to arrive, with the first expected on April 1 and another mid-month.

He said that reserves of natural gas, heavy fuel oil, and diesel remain stable.

Al-Kharabsheh also addressed financial challenges linked to fluctuating global prices, noting that import costs, previously around seven dollars per million British thermal units, have recently surged.