In 2022, Jordan's electricity consumption heavily relied on fossil fuels, which accounted for over three-quarters of the total mix. The primary fossil fuel used was gas, covering almost three-quarters of the electricity demand. On a more positive note, Jordan has made strides in transitioning towards clean energy, with low-carbon sources contributing a bit more than a fifth of the total electricity consumption. Solar power is leading the charge among the green energy options, providing about 15% of the total electricity, while wind energy contributes close to 8%. These numbers indicate a commendable effort towards adopting sustainable energy; however, there is still significant room for improvement in reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

Is Electricity Growing in Jordan?

Despite the global trend towards increasing electricity consumption, Jordan experienced a decline in per capita electricity usage in 2022 compared to historic highs. At 2011 kWh per person, the country saw a reduction of 265 kWh per person from the 2012 peak. Nevertheless, there is a ray of hope in the progress of low-carbon electricity generation, which saw an increase to 464 kWh per person, up by 20 kWh per person from 2021. This modest growth in clean energy consumption is encouraging, but it underscores the need for a more robust strategy to meet growing energy demands sustainably in the future.

Suggestions

To further boost low-carbon electricity generation, Jordan can capitalize on its abundant sunshine by expanding its solar power capacities even more. Looking to other regions for inspiration, Jordan might emulate Nevada, where solar power constitutes 35% of the electricity mix. Furthermore, exploring the potential of nuclear energy could mirror successes seen in countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear accounts for more than 60% of electricity. Successful examples like these highlight the benefits of a diversified low-carbon energy mix, which could dramatically reduce Jordan's reliance on fossil fuels while fostering more sustainable growth.

History

Historically, Jordan's journey into low-carbon electricity began with insignificant hydroelectric developments, with no measurable change from 1990 until the early 2000s. The real momentum started around 2015, when wind power began to take a foothold, albeit modestly. Solar energy saw remarkable growth beginning in 2016, contributing incrementally larger portions each year, with substantial increments occurring particularly in 2019 and 2021. Each year from 2016 onwards has witnessed increases in either solar or wind power generation, representing a clear, positive trend towards more sustainable energy sources. These efforts, though progressive, indicate a foundation upon which Jordan can build a more expansive and diverse low-carbon electricity portfolio.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade