Jordan, UAE boost climate cooperation with renewable energy agreements

AMMAN — Jordan and the UAE have significantly advanced their bilateral ties across various fields, particularly in climate and environmental cooperation and the promotion of renewable energy solutions.  

The partnership underscores the shared commitment of both countries to addressing global climate challenges and transitioning to sustainable, low-carbon economies, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

Over the past decade, Jordan and the UAE have deepened their cooperation in clean and renewable energy, aligning with international efforts to reform energy systems, meet climate commitments, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

Their cooperation is established by key agreements, including a 2021 Declaration of Intent to enhance clean electricity production and water desalination and a 2022 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Jordan’s Ministry of Energy and UAE-based renewable energy company Masdar to explore renewable energy projects with a combined production capacity of up to 2 gigawatts.

During COP28, the two countries signed two additional agreements: one for the development of a 1-gigawatt wind energy project with integrated battery storage and another for a feasibility study on a green hydrogen production plant near Aqaba Port.

The partnership also extends to innovative projects aimed at boosting Jordan's energy sector, improving resource efficiency, and integrating clean energy technologies to curb carbon emissions. 

Notable projects include the Baynouna Solar Energy Plant, Jordan’s largest solar project, which has a production capacity of 200 megawatts, generates electricity for approximately 160,000 homes annually and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 360,000 tonnes each year.

The Tafila Wind Farm, the first commercial wind power project in the Middle East, also contributes 117 megawatts of power, enhancing Jordan’s electricity generation capacity by 3 per cent.

Masdar’s involvement in Jordan’s renewable energy landscape is also pivotal in advancing green hydrogen production. 

By leveraging Jordan’s abundant renewable resources and strategic geographic position, the partnership aims to produce competitively priced green hydrogen fuel for European markets and help Jordan achieve its renewable energy goals.

The upcoming Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, beginning next Sunday in the UAE capital under the theme "United on Climate Action Toward COP28", presents an invaluable platform for fostering international partnerships. 

The event will feature high-profile activities, including the Global Climate Finance Forum and the General Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), further reinforcing Jordanian-Emirati cooperation in environmental and economic sustainability.