Analysis of Renewable Energy Situation in Jordan

Abstract

Jordan, like most developing countries, has problems, constraints, and difficulties that mandate increasing renewable energy (RE) technology utilization. The most effective argument in favor of the adoption of RE technologies in Jordan is that its lack of conventional energy sources is complemented by abundant RE resources. Because RE technologies are not complex, require less operating and maintenance costs and are inherently more environmentally benign than conventional energy sources foster their consideration by energy policy makers as essential components of the national energy balance. The most prudent approach to address this strategic issue is to alleviate the problems, constrains, and difficulties associated with each of the above-mentioned influencing factors. This paper analyzes the current energy situation in Jordan, and discuses the importance of increasing the role of RE technologies in the energy mix. It also discusses some success stories in the RE technologies domain, analyzes the barriers affecting their development, and suggests future courses of action in order to attain their maximum utilization potential. It is believed that this paper will benefit energy policy makers in Jordan, as well as in other developing countries.