The prequalification of 15 companies for the contract to build a photovoltaic power plant in Quweira, southern Jordan, is the latest sign the Hashemite kingdom is serious about utilising renewable sources to meet its future energy requirements.

Unlike many of its regional neighbours, Jordan is not blessed with easily extractable fossil fuels and so is dependent on energy imports to meet its power requirements. The kingdom currently imports 97 per cent of its energy needs, equivalent to 13 per cent of its gross domestic product. As a result, the kingdom’s power sector is extremely vulnerable to external shocks.

Jordan has been severely affected by the drop in gas supplies from Egypt since the uprising in 2011. The influx of more than 300,000 refugees from Syria has put further pressure on the country’s power grid.

Because of the growing demand and cost of producing electricity, Amman has started to look at alternative methods of producing power. This has involved appointing international oil companies to explore its shale oil reserves, as well as pushing ahead with renewable energy projects.

In addition to solar schemes, the Energy & Mineral Resources Ministry is moving forwards with plans for wind farms and waste-to-energy schemes. While many remain sceptical whether the Middle East will meaningfully embrace renewable energy in the near future, Amman is aware it must do more to diversifying its sources of power generation.